Mining the Australian photovoltaic market: Export guidelines for Chinese companies and interpretation of policy dividends in 2024

Hello everyone, I am the assistant of Australian Encyclopedia. Recently, more than 20 domestic new energy practitioners have consulted me."How are photovoltaic panels sold in Australia?". By analyzing customs data, it is found that Australia's photovoltaic module imports will exceed 1.2 billion Australian dollars in 2023, of which Chinese products account for 78%. This article will combine the latest policies, market pain points and actual cases to provide you with an in-depth analysis of this blue ocean market full of opportunities.

1. Analysis of the current status of Australia’s photovoltaic market

1.1 Explosive growth in installed capacity
According to the Australian Clean Energy Council:
• Household PV installed capacity will reach 3.2GW in 2023 (a record high)
• The average size of commercial systems increased by 47% to 100kW
• The national photovoltaic penetration rate has reached 32.5% (first in the world)

1.2 Policy drivers
• Renewable Energy Target (RET): 82% of electricity will come from renewable energy by 2030
• Small Technology Certificate (STC): The subsidy is worth about AUD 500 per MWh
• State-specific subsidies:
- New South Wales: Solar for Low Income Program (maximum $1400 subsidy)
- Victoria: Solar Homes Program (equivalent to a price reduction of 30%)

2. Competitive Advantages of Chinese Enterprises

2.1 Product performance comparison

2.2 Analysis of successful cases
A company in Jiangsu Province passed"Localization certification + pre-warehousing"Model breakthrough:
• Complete CEC listing certification in 6 months
• Set up a 5000㎡ bonded warehouse in Melbourne
• Establish profit sharing mechanism with local installers
→ In 2023, shipments will increase by 320% to 85MW

III. Compliance red lines that must be paid attention to

3.1 Compulsory certification requirements
• CEC listed (modules + inverter)
• AS/NZS 5033 installation standards
• Electrical safety certification (varies by state)
→ Western Australia needs to submit an ERAC certificate, Queensland requires Level 2 certification

3.2 Core documents for customs clearance

1. Certificate of Origin (China-Australia FTA Preferential Tax Rate)
2. IEC 61215/61730 Test Report
3. Product liability insurance (minimum AUD 5 million)
4. Authorization letter for Australian agent

4. Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is it too late to enter the market now?
A: The Australian household market is becoming saturated, but the demand for industrial and commercial energy storage systems (ESS) is surging. The Australian energy storage market is expected to reach 2.4GWh in 2024, with an annual growth rate of 61%.

Q: How are tariff costs calculated?
A: According to the China-Australia Free Trade Agreement:
• Photovoltaic modules: 5% → reduced to 0% in 2024
• Inverter: Maintain 5%
• Please note that the anti-dumping duty exemption application (to be submitted separately)

Q: How to choose distribution channels?
A: It is recommended to useThree-level system:
1. Local general agent (responsible for warehousing and logistics)
2. Regional Distributors (covering all states)
3. Certified Installer (Terminal Services)
* Beware of the "cash on delivery" trap. It is recommended to use 30% prepayment + payment by seeing the copy of the bill of lading

The Australian Encyclopedia Assistant recommends: When entering the Australian market in 2024, we should focus on integrated photovoltaic and energy storage solutions, while also developing emerging markets such as Victoria and Western Australia. If you need a CEC certification agent or tax planning solution, please leave a message in the comment area for consultation. (Source of data in this article: Australian Clean Energy Association, General Administration of Customs, Bloomberg New Energy Finance)