What does keeping the solar panels involve?
Our field service provider would visit and remove the cabinet, including the inverter and battery. The solar panels and wiring will be left so you can replace the equipment when you’re ready.
You will also need to sign an acceptance letter which outlines the terms and conditions of this option. The letter transfers ownership and risk of the products on an ‘as is, where is’ basis in full and final settlement, in accordance with the terms of that letter. These include that the transfer will be without warranties, guarantees or assurances, in particular given the equipment has been in service at customers’ property since the beginning of the SunGenie programme.
We suggest you speak to the new solar provider regarding provision of maintenance and spare parts support.
Can I replace the removed components (inverter, battery) with newer technology?
Will I still be able to generate solar energy if I choose to keep the solar panels?
If you choose to keep the solar panels, Vector will leave them on your roof and we will transfer ownership to you on an ‘as is, where is’ basis on the terms set out in the Option 2 Acceptance Letter. However, to generate solar energy, at a minimum you’ll need an inverter which you need to arrange separately. If you’d like to store the energy for use when the solar panels aren’t generating, such as night-time, you might want to consider a battery as well.
How long is the warranty on the solar panels?
The solar panels are manufactured by TrinaSolar. TrinaSolar provides a 25-year linear power warranty from the date they were installed, which Vector does not manage. If you have any ongoing questions related to the solar panels you will need to approach TrinaSolar directly.
Can I choose the brand or model of the replacement inverter or battery?
Yes, you can choose your own supplier and model of replacement inverter or battery to suit your needs.
If I choose to install alternative equipment, will Vector assist with the installation and setup?
No, Vector won’t be involved in the installation and set-up as once ownership of the solar panels is transferred to you, the solar panels will be your property and responsibility. The solar provider you approach would handle the installation and setup for you. We have provided some indicative pricing from a few solar providers (see
Solar provider’s alternative equipment and installation price estimates); you are welcome to engage with any solar provider of your choice.
What happens if the new equipment I purchase doesn’t integrate well with the existing solar panels?
A site visit may be required by the solar provider to verify your choice of equipment is suitable. The solar provider will be best placed to talk through any concerns regarding integration.
What is the cost to me if I choose to keep the solar panels?
There is no cost to choose to keep the solar panels, but you will be accepting them on an ‘as is where is’ basis. Full terms and conditions will be outlined in our Option 2 Acceptance Letter which you will need to sign if you choose to keep the solar panels. Vector will be responsible for the removal costs of the cabinet (inverter and battery) and will provide a refund for ending our programme early (if described in your contract). You will need to pay the costs of replacement equipment, which will depend on your personal preference. We have provided some indicative pricing from a few solar providers (see
Solar provider’s alternative equipment and installation price estimates). Under the Option 2 (you choose to keep the solar panels), Vector will also contribute an additional $350.
What is the Termination Refund?
You may be entitled to a termination refund if described in your contract, Part B clause 6.8. As Vector is ending the Solar Programme early, Vector will refund you according to the contract. We have stopped your monthly fees and as the services have not been available to you the remaining months left on your contract will be calculated from 1 June 2024.
When and how will I get the Termination Refund and Additional Contribution from Vector?
We will ask you to confirm your bank account details in your Option 2 Acceptance Letter. Following receipt of a signed acceptance letter, we will direct credit the Termination Refund and Additional Contribution to your chosen account within 4 weeks.
Why is Vector giving an additional contribution if I wish to keep my solar panels?
We acknowledge this has been an unfortunate situation and, while the contract does not outline any contribution beyond the Termination Refund, we would like to offer something towards the cost of replacement equipment if you wish to keep your solar panels.
What happens to my contract with Vector if I choose this option?
We are unable to continue to provide solar services, so we are terminating your contract. No further monthly fees will be payable, and Vector will transfer ownership of the solar panels to you on an as is, where is basis. You would own the solar panels and be responsible for maintaining these; the full terms and conditions will be outlined in the Option 2 acceptance letter.
Will I need to sign a new contract for the replacement system or any ongoing maintenance?
You will need to approach a solar provider and discuss this with them.