Ecosaver Australia Pty Ltd has been banned from the Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program for allegedly providing falsified photo evidence for its energy efficiency projects and breaching consumer protections.
The VEU program is an energy efficiency program that helps Victorians cut their energy bills by supporting households and businesses to use energy more efficiently. Accredited businesses undertake energy efficiency upgrades that entitle them to create Victorian energy efficiency certificates, which they can then sell.
The commission alleges Ecosaver and contractors working on its behalf:
- made false claims about upgrades to claim more certificates, including submitting photos of the same decommissioned lighting as evidence for multiple upgrades
- claimed for upgrades that did not comply with VEU and industry rules
- engaged in banned sales and marketing activity, including doorknocking and telemarketing.
The commission initially suspended Ecosaver from the program in March and refused registration of over $4 million* in certificates. This protects Victorian energy consumers and prevents Ecosaver profiting from non-compliant upgrades.
The commission continues to investigate Ecosaver and may pursue further action.
This is the fourth business the commission has banned from the VEU program in 2026.
*Figure calculated using the certificate value of $83.70, the spot price on 24 March 2026.
Quotes attributable to Essential Services Commission Chairperson and Commissioner Gerard Brody
"Our investigation uncovered what we allege to be deliberate, egregious breaches of program rules. We don't tolerate that behaviour, so Ecosaver has been banned from the program."
"We're conducting more inspections than ever before and using our enforcement powers to stamp out unacceptable behaviour, to protect program integrity and put consumers first."
"Our strong approach to compliance and enforcement is important to provide a level-playing field for businesses that do the right thing and to give consumers confidence in the VEU program."
