The Australian government has appointed multinational consumer credit agency Equifax Australasia Credit Ratings to design, develop, implement, and operate a new Developer Rating Scheme.
Australia’s climate change and energy minister, Chris Bowen, has said that 60 developers have already signed up to pilot the programme, which will run until March 2026, after which ratings for compliant developers will be made public.
The scheme will provide transparent, periodic assessments of renewable energy and transmission businesses, including those developing battery energy storage systems (BESS).
The rating system could streamline community engagement processes for storage developers, who often face complex land arrangements, including leases, easements, and planning approvals in Australia.
Enjoy 12 months of exclusive analysis
- Regular insight and analysis of the industry’s biggest developments
- In-depth interviews with the industry’s leading figures
- Annual digital subscription to the PV Tech Power journal
- Discounts on Solar Media’s portfolio of events, in-person and virtual
Or continue reading this article for free
“This independent rating scheme will shine a light on developer behaviour so landholders can make informed decisions and will ensure everyone lifts their game when it comes to working with communities,” Chris Bowen said.
According to the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW), the scheme will assess developers on multiple fronts critical to energy storage project success, including business integrity and governance, financial stability and capability, community engagement practices, and project development track record.
Companies that meet minimum standards will be listed on a free public register, enhancing transparency and accountability. Notably, developers who avoid participation or fail to meet requirements will not be included.
The model takes inspiration from successful initiatives such as New South Wales’ iCIRT scheme, which rates companies in the construction sector. Equifax confirmed it will work closely with federal, state, and territory governments, industry bodies, community organisations, and landholders during the design and testing phase.
Tony Mahar, the Australian Energy Infrastructure commissioner, emphasised the scheme’s importance, stating that it will “provide a transparent and credible source of information, which is critical for local communities. Whilst the scheme is voluntary at this stage, we encourage all developers to participate and would question any that chose not to.”
Our publisher, Solar Media, will host the Battery Asset Management Summit Australia 2025 on 26-27 August in Sydney. You can get 20% off your ticket using the code ESN20 at checkout.
