Bulletin: October 2024. Tesla Powerwall 3 Training & Electrical Focus.

With CEC approval confirmed [October 18, 2024], a third generation of Tesla Powerwall will soon become available in Perth, Western Australia, pending Western Power and Synergy listing. A high adoption appeal is imminent based on current pre-approval orders and continued extensive inquiry exceeding available stock levels. In alternative areas of focus, Building and Energy Western Australia released two critical updates for technically associated personnel.

Contents

Important: These Bulletins are compiled for McKercher Corporation staff and will likely be read in this way. Non-staff members may familiarise themselves with this open-source monthly compilation of key business communication and activities.

Training: Tesla Powerwall 3

Tesla: Learning and installation assistance for Powerwall 3 in Western Australia

Powerwall 3 is now available, and Tesla has provided a suite of resources to McKercher Corporation staff to have the most up-to-date learning resources available. Whether in sales, customer service, or installation, it’s crucial to familiarise learnings of this third-generation sustainable energy solution set to become a mainstream product from PSW Energy and Perth Solar Warehouse.

Essential Training:

  • Partner Portal Learning Modules: A compulsory course for everyone interacting with Powerwall 3. Access this self-paced training through the Partner Portal.
  • Tesla Installer Academy on YouTube: Dive deeper with bite-sized videos covering critical aspects of Powerwall 3. Find the playlist here: Tesla Powerwall 3 Installer Academy.

Key Documentation:

All essential Powerwall 3 documents are available in the Partner Portal Document Digest. Be sure to review these key product resources:

Stay Informed:

  • Regularly check the Partner Portal and Tesla Installer Academy for updates and new resources.
  • Familiarise yourself with the product, installation process, and safety guidelines.

With Powerwall 3, Tesla continues to innovate in the home energy storage space. By utilising these resources, you’ll be well-equipped to support customers and contribute to the successful rollout of this exciting new product. More in depth resources to follow.

Industry Update: Building & Energy WA - CPR Training

Western Australia: New ongoing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training requirements for licensed electricians

As of October 17, 2024, licenced electricians in Western Australia must maintain a current cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification. This means completing an approved CPR course every three years.

Woman conducting CPR on a dummy

Why the change?

Safety is paramount in the electrical industry. By keeping your CPR skills up-to-date, you’re better equipped to respond to workplace emergencies and potentially save a life.

What you need to know:

  • Approved Course: The required course is HLTAID009—Provide cardiopulmonary resuscitation, which must be taken through a registered training organization (RTO). PSW Energy and Perth Solar Warehouse staff will be provided with this training as part of their employment. For further research beyond McKercher Corporation nominated Registered Training Organisations (RTOs), find approved RTOs on Training.gov.au.
  • Timeline: If you were licensed before October 16, 2024, you have three years from that date to complete your initial training. Newly licensed electricians must complete training within three years of receiving their license.
  • Funding: McKercher Corporation will provide funding to employees where a contractual funding agreement is in place. You may also be eligible for funding through the Construction Training Fund (CTF). Visit the CTF website for more information.
  • Record Keeping: Keep a record of your CPR training for five years. Audits will be conducted.
  • Consequences: Failure to comply may result in fines or prosecution.

Stay ahead:

  • Coordinate your CPR training sooner rather than later (company scheduling has begun).
  • Keep your certification current to avoid penalties.
  • Remember, this requirement is about more than just compliance – it’s about being prepared to help in a critical situation.

For detailed information, visit the Building and Energy website.

Updated standard AS/NZS 4777.1:2024

Grid connection of energy systems via inverters, Part 1: Installation requirements

A revised version of AS/NZS 4777.1:2024, Grid connection of energy systems via inverters, Part 1: Installation requirements, was published on August 23, 2024, and will become mandatory on February 23, 2025.

Key Changes You Need to Know:

  • Improved clarity: The standard now offers better alignment and understanding of requirements for connecting inverter energy systems (IES) to electrical installations.
  • Consistent terminology: Terminology is now consistent between the Wiring Rules and AS/NZS 4777.1:2024, reducing confusion.
  • New terms and definitions: New terms like “independent supply” and “substitute supply” have been introduced, along with a dedicated section on multiple-mode IES installations (including those with EV supply equipment capable of reverse power transfer).
  • Streamlined requirements: Duplicated requirements for energy sources with dedicated standards (like PV arrays and battery energy storage systems) have been removed.

Why this matters:

This updated standard is a crucial document for anyone involved in the renewable energy industry in Western Australia. It reflects the ongoing evolution of technology and ensures energy systems’ safe and effective integration into the grid.

Stay Ahead:

  • Get your copy: Purchase AS/NZS 4777.1:2024 from the Standards Australia Store.
  • Familiarize yourself with the changes: Review the updated standard and understand the new requirements.
  • Start implementing the new standards: Ensure your future installations comply with the updated guidelines.

By staying informed and adapting to these changes, you’ll contribute to a safer and more reliable renewable energy landscape in Western Australia.

Awards: EUPD Research Top Installer 2024

Teamwork and Customer Focus Drivers For Outstanding Recognition

For the second year running, PSW Energy and Perth Solar Warehouse has secured the prestigious EUPD Research Top Installer award. This accolade, presented at the 2024 ceremony in Melbourne, recognises PSW’s commitment to customer satisfaction combined with significant installation volumes.

EUPD Reseach Top Installer Awards 2024 Derek McKercher Nicole Bilman PSW

EUPD Research, a leading market research firm, uses a rigorous evaluation process combining customer feedback and installation data to identify top performers. This win solidifies PSW’s position as a leader in the Australian solar market.

Congratulations all PSW Energy, Perth Solar Warehouse staff for this well-deserved international recognition!

Read more: PSW Energy & Perth Solar Warehouse Shine at EUPD Research Top Installer Awards 2024 

Perth Solar Warehouse Shines at EUPD Research Top Installer Awards 2024

EUPD Reseach Top Installer Awards 2024 Derek McKercher Nicole Bilman PSW

The prestigious EUPD Research Top Installer Awards ceremony for 2024 unfolded at the iconic Cargo Hall Southbank in Melbourne, bringing together Australia’s leading solar installation companies. Hosted in collaboration with Supply Partners and supported by Phono Solar, Clenergy, Sungrow, and Greenbank Environmental, the awards celebrate excellence in the solar industry, acknowledging companies that demonstrate exceptional customer satisfaction and reportable company data.

This year, PSW Energy and Perth Solar Warehouse secured EUPD Research’s coveted ‘installer’ award for the second consecutive year, solidifying their position as leaders in the Australian solar retail market.  

Key points

PSW Energy and Perth Solar Warehouse‘s consecutive win is a testament to unwavering commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Led by Nicole Bilman, one of the few women leading the charge in Australia’s solar industry, PSW [brands] has consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence. Their success is one of teamwork, dedication, and a passion towards connecting people with their sustainable energy solution through digitally accessible convenience.

 

EUPD Research, a renowned market research and consulting firm, employs a rigorous evaluation process to identify top-performing installers. Their methodology combines customer satisfaction data with installation volume reporting, ensuring that awardees excel in both customer service and market penetration. This comprehensive approach makes every EUPD Research Top Installer Award an internationally recognised level of significant achievement within the solar industry.  

A Woman-Led Success Story

With 11 years of energy business experience as a cornerstone, General Manager Nicole Bilman has guided PSW Energy and Perth Solar Warehouse to become a stand out sustainable energy solutions provider on the Australian landscape. A vote of confidence by Director Derek McKercher [2021], her business management success challenges stereotypes and demonstrates the power of diversity and inclusion in the renewable energy sector. Bilman’s leadership has fostered a company culture prioritising customer satisfaction, employee empowerment, and environmental responsibility.

Image: Nicole Bilman, PSW Energy, Perth Solar Warehouse General Manager via LinkedIn

Teamwork & Customer Focus: The Heart of Success

However, these achievements are not solely attributed to PSWs leadership. The businesses foster a close-knit team environment where every member plays a crucial role in achieving successful customer outcomes. This collaborative spirit is evident in their dedication to exceptional customer service, ensuring clients feel valued and supported throughout their solar journey.

From the initial consultation to the final installation and in support, PSW’s EUPD Research Top Installer award-winning team works closely with customers, providing responsive advice and convenient solutions to meet their energy needs. This personalised approach, coupled with a commitment to using high-quality products and employing skilled SAA-accredited installers, has earned a reputation for excellence in the industry.

Gallery ›

Forging a Digital Approach on the Australian Solar Landscape

PSWs’ journey is noteworthy considering the West Australian solar market’s dynamic and highly competitive nature. A more streamlined digital approach improves business efficiency, offers value to the end-user, and maintains a competitive yet high-quality approach with local knowledge.

With increasing demand for renewable energy solutions and a growing number of installers vying for market share, PSW Energy and Perth Solar Warehouse have distinguished themselves through a commitment to customer satisfaction, quality workmanship, and ethical business practices while committing to long-term customer outcomes. 

Derek McKercher, Nicole Bilman, Daniel Fuchs, infront of the EUPD Research Top Installer Awards - Australia 2024 banner displaying the EUPD Research Installer Award certificate and shield.

Image Left to Right: Daniel Fuchs – EUPD Research, Nicole Bilman (PSW General Manager), Derek McKercher (PSW Director).

It’s more of a dedication to sustainability that extends beyond core business operations. PSW Energy and Perth Solar Warehouse actively engage in community initiatives and educational programs, promoting the benefits of solar energy and contributing to a more diverse energy mix future for Australia.

Looking Ahead

As Australia transitions towards a sustainable energy future, businesses like PSW Energy and Perth Solar Warehouse will play a vital role in driving this transformation locally. Their commitment to excellence, customer satisfaction, and sustainable practices inspires the entire industry to adopt an enhanced digitalised business model. With continued dedication and balanced leadership, PSW brands are poised for continued success.

The EUPD Research Top Installer Award 2024 is a well-deserved recognition of a united achievement. PSW Energy and Perth Solar Warehouse’s story is a testament to the power of teamwork, dedication, and a passion for making a difference in the local energy supply market.

EUPD Research Awards 2023: Top Brand ‘Installer’ Australia

EUPD Research Award 2023

October 2023: Presented during the All-Energy Australia conference, Melbourne, and among esteemed industry guests was the inaugural EUPD Research Awards 2023: Top Brand ‘Installer’ Australia. Unlike alternative recognitions, usually product volume-related, EUPD Research awards reflect high customer satisfaction levels expressed over time.

Held on October 25 2023, at the Pearl Riverfront reception centre during the All-Energy Australia conference, EUPD Research delivered its inaugural installer awards to assist greater consumer confidence between solar installer brands.

In a space full of noise, it’s easy to need deeper clarification about whom to trust when choosing the ideal solar installation company. All EUPD Research Top Brand PV ‘Installer’ awards are allocated to organisations with an outstanding customer-centric focus while delivering solar energy projects. The scope is to build greater consumer trust towards sustainable energy implementation through trusted brands.

EUPD Research Award-winners

Without an official list order, an emphasis was placed on the initial two companies delivered to the audience who received outstanding acknowledgements.

1 Receiving highly commendable recognition on the night for outstanding customer satisfaction was Jake Warner from Penrith Solar Centre. With a virtually unblemished and voluminous consumer rating across key customer satisfaction data platforms, it’s easy to understand why Penrith Solar Centre is the top recognised company in this category.

EUPD Research Award 2023 Penrith Solar Centre - Jake Warner

2 The second highly acknowledged organisation to receive recognition in the EUPD Research Awards, Top Brand PV ‘Installer’ Australia, was McKercher Corporation subsidiary PSW Energy. Received by Director Derek McKercher, PSW Energy is Western Australia’s highest-ranked installer by customer satisfaction data, according to EUPD Research.

PSW EUPD Award 2023 Derek McKercher with Shield

The event continued with Lliam Ricketts from Supply Partners (event sponsor) reading out the EUPD Research awards to the remaining successfully nominated Australian solar installation companies. In what will be a coveted acquisition for many Australian installer brands in the following years, here are the successful nominees for this years EUPD Research Awards: Top Brand ‘Installer’ Australia. It’s important to mention that all award winners display characteristics of a sustainable business for a proven warranty combined with outstanding customer outcomes to assist as a trusted solutions provider.

EUPD Research Top Brand Installer
State
Connect
Penrith Solar Centre
NSW
website ›
PSW Energy, Perth Solar Warehouse
WA
website ›
1KOMMA5°
NSW
website ›
Adapt Energy
QLD
website ›
Arkana Energy Group
QLD
website ›
DQ Electrical Pty Ltd
SA
website ›
DS ENERGY
QLD
website ›
Elite Power Group
NSW
website ›
EPC Solar
ACT
website ›
GEM Energy
QLD
website ›
GI Energy Australia
QLD
website ›
Goliath Solar and Electrical
SA
website ›
Green Energy Technologies
QLD
website ›
Hardy Electrical & Solar
NSW
website ›
I Want Energy
TAS
website ›
Inspire Energy
NSW
website ›
KVA Power
WA
website ›
Lightning Solar
VIC
website ›
Limitless Energy Solutions
VIC
website ›
Matrix Solar Solutions
SA
website ›
Marshall Energy Solutions
VIC
website ›
MC Electrical
QLD
website ›
Omnisolar
QLD
website ›
Off-Grid Energy Australia
SA
website ›
PowerSmart Solutions
QLD
website ›
Positive Energy Solutions Pty Ltd
WA
website ›
Pyramid Power
NSW
website ›
Regen Power Pty Ltd
WA
website ›
Rescom Solar
NSW
website ›
Scott Burke Electrical
QLD
website ›
Smart Energy Answers
NSW
website ›
Solar City NT
NT
website ›
SolarBright Australia
NSW
website ›
Solar Integrity
VIC
website ›
Springers Solar
QLD
website ›
Solargain PV Pty Ltd
WA
website ›
Velocity Solar
VIC
website ›
Venergy Solar Australia
SA
website ›
Wauchope Solar
NSW
website ›

Source: EUPD Research LinkedIn

All EUPD Research Award holders have demonstrated what is regarded as a high customer satisfaction standard when assessing a broad scope of qualification data. Companies awarded the EUPD Research Top Brand PV seal are generally recognised for upholding customer expectations over the warranted journey.

Solar installation companies with a customer-centric focus are more likely to have a high degree of product qualification standards to ensure a reputable advantage. Award holder product implementation and support should be considered superior against the majority of competing options.

EUPD Research most awarded states

Gauging EUPD Research award holders by state provides a level of available selection options within a particular geographical location. 

State
Awarded Installers
QLD
11
NSW
10
SA
5
VIC
5
WA
5
ACT
1
TAS
1
NT
1

EUPD Research has been awarding product manufacturers for an extensive period. However, the element with the most dependability, the installer, is now becoming acknowledged as a critical component within the solar energy generation system. Even though the products purchased may have a defined warranty period, there is no warranty if the solar energy system isn’t installed to the manufacturer’s specifications. Installation companies with a track record of high customer satisfaction understand the products they work with to ensure the best customer outcomes in every scenario. Making EUPD Research award criteria a dependable installer qualification tool for your solar project.

EuPD Research Awards: Learn more ›