Ecovantage Faces Rectification Costs for Non-Compliant
Installations
MELBOURNE — The Essential Services Commission has accepted a court-enforceable undertaking from Ecovantage Pty Ltd to address non-compliant water heater installations, according to a statement released this week. This marks the first such undertaking accepted under the Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program.
The VEU programme aims to reduce energy bills through improved efficiency, allowing accredited businesses to earn certificates for energy upgrades. Ecovantage claimed up to 31,666 certificates for installations that failed to meet compliance across 82 sites, primarily in Barwon South West and Loddon Mallee regions, the commission confirmed.
Details of the Undertaking and Industry Context
The commission’s investigation, prompted by industry intelligence, revealed that a contractor for Ecovantage made false claims to increase certificate counts and conducted non-compliant upgrades. These actions included failing to properly decommission replaced equipment and engaging in prohibited sales practices like doorknocking. Gerard Brody, Chairperson of the Essential Services Commission, stated, “This conduct is a serious breach of VEU programme rules that has had a real impact on consumers, including possible health and safety risks.”
The undertaking requires Ecovantage to cover the costs of rectifying all non-compliant installations and mandates regular progress reports to the commission. Brody added, “Ecovantage is required to rectify the installations at its own cost, which will likely significantly surpass any profit from the installations.” The Building and Plumbing Commission is also investigating the conduct of the associated plumbing practitioners.
In addition to financial repercussions, the undertaking emphasises the importance of maintaining compliance with industry standards. It serves as a warning to other companies participating in the VEU programme to adhere strictly to regulations. The commission is committed to ensuring that energy efficiency programmes in Victoria are implemented correctly and benefit consumers without compromising safety or integrity. This case highlights the ongoing need for vigilance and oversight in the energy sector, as well as the potential consequences for those who attempt to circumvent established rules.
Source: newshub.medianet.com.au
Last updated: 4 April 2026, 8:24 pm
