Victorian Businesses Face Increased Inspections

A statewide compliance initiative has led to the forfeiture of $4.4 million in Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) certificates after identifying non-compliant installations across the state.

Kicking off 2026 with increased compliance monitoring, the Essential Services Commission has intensified inspections from Melbourne to regional areas such as Ballarat and Dandenong. These efforts aim to ensure energy-efficient upgrades comply with VEU programme standards.

Inspectors have conducted compliance blitzes across Melbourne and regional Victoria. Key inspection areas include lighting upgrades in agricultural regions around Ballarat, Golden Plains, and Moorabool, air conditioner installations in Melbourne's northern and eastern suburbs, and industrial heat pump upgrades in Dandenong, Clayton, and Greater Geelong.

Alongside inspections, the commission’s Fraud Taskforce is contacting thousands of consumers across Victoria to confirm that upgrade works were completed in line with VEU requirements. This effort, combined with data analysis, certificate assessments, audits, and consumer surveys, helps detect non-compliance and ensures the integrity of the program.

Fraud Taskforce and Inspections

Evidence gathered from these inspections has led to enforcement action against three accredited businesses in 2026 so far, with more under investigation. The scrutiny maintains programme integrity and ensures fair competition among participants.

Gerard Brody, Chairperson of the Essential Services Commission, stated, "We’re inspecting more VEU upgrades than ever to ensure products are installed correctly and energy savings are genuine. These inspections protect customers and maintain the integrity of the program."

Brody also confirmed, "This year, our compliance work has led to two businesses being kicked out of the programme altogether, and businesses forfeiting $4.4 million worth of energy efficiency certificates."

These inspections ensure a level playing field for the thousands of programme participants doing the right thing. They also send a clear message to those who aren’t compliant: our officers could turn up anywhere, and there are real consequences for non-compliance.