The scam of installing photovoltaic panels in rural areas revealed

Are 'upselling scams' causing a surge in solar panel fraud?

However, homeowners making the most of the Government’s solar panel drive have increasingly fallen victim to conmen. Citizens Advice has warned of a surge in solar panel fraud, particularly “upselling scams” in which cold-callers convince customers to upgrade technology they already have to meet fabricated legal “standards”.

How to avoid solar panel scams?

Shopping for quotes can also help you to dodge a scam. Comparing quotes from multiple reliable companies gives you an idea of the average price of solar panels in your area and allows you to find the optimal price for your solar panel installation.

Why are residential solar panels becoming more popular?

Increased energy prices, the ‘cost of living’ crisis, and the fact that properties with solar panels attract eco-conscious buyers, have contributed to a growth in residential solar panel installations. Homeowners typically install between 10 and 15 panels, with a value of around £7,000.

Do solar panels attract VAT?

From April 2022, energy-efficient equipment such as solar panels, insulation and heat pumps have attracted zero VAT, instead of 5pc, and will continue to do so until 2027. However, homeowners making the most of the Government’s solar panel drive have increasingly fallen victim to conmen.

Are solar panels causing a rise in solar crime?

A rise in solar crime means eco-conscious homeowners and farmers who have diversified into renewables should check their security and insurance. The warning comes after police figures revealed a 48 per cent rise in solar panel and cabling theft from 2021 to 2022.¹

Are solar panels being targeted by fraudsters using feed-in tariffs?

Households that have already installed solar panels are also being targeted by fraudsters using publicly available information from feed-in tariffs, warned Dr Tim Jones, of Cornwall-based charity Community Energy Plus.