How to deal with photovoltaic panel scams

Are solar panels a scam?

Solar panel scams have become common, especially in states with robust solar markets or those with strong incentive programs. The online marketplace has also become a breeding ground for scams, with social media ads and email campaigns promising unrealistic deals for “free solar panels” and “no more electricity bills.”

How do I protect myself from solar scams?

Protecting yourself from solar scams means taking a proactive approach and following a few key strategies. One of the most effective ways to protect yourself from solar scams is to know the average cost of solar panels in your area. By researching prices, you can identify quotes that are suspiciously high or low.

How do I know if a solar company is a scam?

Be wary of solicitors. Always verify the identity and credentials of anyone claiming to represent a solar company. Unscrupulous solar companies may employ aggressive or dishonest sales tactics to close deals quickly, especially if the proposed solar installation isn’t in your best interest.

Are 'fake' solar companies a scam?

Beware of any company asking you to make a big deposit before they have completed their installation. This is one of the most common ways ‘fake’ solar companies have targeted consumers – whereby they take a hefty deposit and then never turn up to carry out the installation. This is common solar scam.

What are the most common solar scams?

One of the most prevalent solar scams involves misleading lease agreements or power purchase agreements (PPAs). While these financing options are legitimate ways to access solar energy, unethical companies may misrepresent the terms or benefits of these agreements.

How do I know if my solar panel is bad?

If you're concerned, contact your installer in the first instance or a recommended solar panel firm. If there is a problem with your system this will often be indicated by a fault code on the inverter. More than half of solar panel owners have had cold calls about their solar pv panels.