New data released today by the REC Agents Association (RAA) shows nearly four million Australians have solar panels or solar hot water on the roofs of their homes and businesses. “Australia has won the gold medal for household solar”, said Ric Brazzale, President of RAA (a body that represents  creators and traders of renewable energy certificates).

“Australia installed more residential rooftop solar panel systems in 2011 than any other country.”

A RAA fact sheet released today uses Clean Energy Regulator data to show that 1.5 million solar
systems – solar hot water and solar panels -­‐ have been installed, and have created renewable
energy certificates. That is equivalent to 1,700 megawatts of installed PV capacity. The Australian
Bureau of Statistics states the average household size is 2.5 people.

“Australia should dedicate this gold medal to the Renewable Energy Target, which has helped
deliver solar to ordinary Australians”, said Mr Brazzale.

“Recognition must go to the Howard Government for having the vision to establish a world-­‐leading
Renewable Energy Target, to the Rudd Government for increasing that target four-­‐fold and to the
Gillard Government for delivering on the promise of the Renewable Energy Target.”

“Whilst four million Australians now have solar on their roofs, many more Australians are keen to
get on board. The Renewable Energy Target must be maintained, expanded and extended over
time to help deliver solar to all Australians.”

Download the REC Agents Fact Sheet here.

For further information, please contact Ric Brazzale on 0419 522 659 or Fiona O’Hehir on 03 9845 3007.