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Energy Regulator Cancels Planetwise Solutions’ Accreditation Over Alleged Fraud
The Essential Services Commission has revoked the Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) accreditation of Planetwise Solutions Pty Ltd after discovering the company allegedly submitted doctored photographs as evidence of completed energy efficiency projects.
According to the commission, Planetwise Solutions presented digitally manipulated images of decommissioned lights to fraudulently claim Victorian energy efficiency certificates, which can be sold for profit under the program.
The VEU program is designed to reduce energy costs for Victorian residents and businesses by incentivizing energy-efficient upgrades. Accredited companies can perform these upgrades and create certificates that represent energy savings, which they can then sell in the marketplace.
“Submitting false evidence is a flagrant and serious breach of program rules. This is why we were quick to suspend and now ban Planetwise Solutions, while we consider additional action,” said Gerard Brody, Chairperson and Commissioner of the Essential Services Commission.
The regulatory body has refused registration of 662 certificates valued at approximately $52,894, based on the February 6, 2026 spot price of $79.90 per certificate. This action follows an earlier decision that ordered the company to surrender 773 certificates worth an estimated $61,763.
The commission initially suspended Planetwise Solutions’ accreditation in October 2025 after preliminary investigations raised concerns about the company’s practices. The suspension was implemented to halt potential non-compliance while authorities conducted a more thorough investigation.
“We were able to identify Planetwise Solutions’ non-compliance through our rigorous assessment of certificates created for upgrades. The system works – if you break the rules, there are consequences,” Brody added.
In response to the commission’s decision, Planetwise Solutions applied for a review on December 31, 2025. The review was completed on February 9, 2026, with authorities upholding the original decision to cancel the company’s accreditation and refuse the registration of the disputed certificates.
The case highlights increased scrutiny within the VEU program, which plays a significant role in Victoria’s energy efficiency strategy. The program has become an important component of the state’s efforts to reduce energy consumption and lower carbon emissions while providing economic benefits to participants.
“We’re monitoring the VEU program closer than ever to uncover wrongdoing, including establishing a new Fraud Taskforce and undertaking more site inspections,” Brody noted, signaling the commission’s commitment to program integrity.
The VEU program represents one of Australia’s largest energy efficiency initiatives and has helped thousands of households and businesses reduce their energy consumption. Certificate values fluctuate based on market conditions, making proper verification of completed projects essential to maintaining the program’s credibility and economic value.
Industry observers note that enforcement actions like this are crucial for maintaining trust in environmental certificate programs, which form a key part of Australia’s transition to more sustainable energy practices. Fraudulent activities not only undermine program objectives but can distort market pricing for legitimate participants.
The commission has indicated that its investigation into Planetwise Solutions continues, with additional enforcement actions possible given what it describes as the “serious nature of this conduct.”
The case serves as a reminder of the regulatory oversight in place for environmental compliance programs and the consequences that can follow when companies attempt to circumvent program requirements.
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8 Comments
Manipulating photos as evidence is a pretty brazen attempt at gaming the system. The commission was right to act quickly and decisively to revoke the company’s accreditation.
It’s concerning to see a company try to exploit an energy efficiency program through fraud. Hopefully this sends a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated.
Agreed, the integrity of these programs is crucial. Strict enforcement and tough penalties for abuse are important to maintain public trust.
This kind of deception is really disappointing to see, especially in a program meant to help businesses and residents reduce their energy costs. I hope the commission can recover the fraudulently issued certificates.
Agreed, it’s an unfortunate situation. Regulators need to stay vigilant to prevent abuse and ensure these programs achieve their intended environmental and economic benefits.
While energy efficiency programs can provide valuable incentives, this case highlights the need for robust verification processes to prevent abuse. Kudos to the regulators for catching and addressing this fraud.
Falsifying evidence and doctoring photos is a serious abuse of trust in these energy efficiency programs. It’s important that regulators take swift action to maintain integrity and protect consumers.
Absolutely, any fraud undermines the credibility of these important initiatives. Kudos to the commission for investigating and revoking accreditation in this case.