Right now, solar energy systems are more accessible and in demand than ever before, as a sustainable way to lower electricity costs and carbon emissions for homeowners, businesses, and organizations worldwide.
With explosive growth, however, the United States rooftop solar industry has developed a bit of a fraud problem, and consumer complaints have risen exponentially in the last five years according to several studies.
While we have always advised homeowners to be wary of “free solar panels” and other misleading marketing tactics, today’s bad actors can prey on vulnerable customers with sophisticated and deceitful sales tactics.
How to avoid scams when installing solar panels
If you would like to join the millions of people who are actively saving money with solar energy, NPR recommends the following to avoid potential scammers:
Do not trust companies that use high-pressure sales tactics, especially those that claim you must “act now” or else lose potential savings.
Never touch someone else's iPad or cellphone. Some solar scammers have been reported copying and pasting signatures onto multiple contracts.
Don't work with a solar company that finds you or appears to be brand new. Instead, go out and search for a provider that has been in business within your community for years.
Try to go solar with a company that actually installs your system, rather than those who subcontract the work.
Familiarize yourself with tax credits for solar and consider speaking with a tax professional before signing your contract, as salespeople can be dishonest in how these programs operate.
When searching for the best solar panels for your home, NPR also recommends getting quotes from at least three installers, including prices for cash and financing options to uncover potentially hidden fees. To find reputable solar installers who serve your area, it's best to ask family, friends, and neighbors for referrals and perform some research into local providers on your own.
If you believe you may have spotted a solar scam, the US Department of Treasury may be interested to hear your story. On August 7, 2024, the Treasury, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced they will be taking steps to protect homeowners so that those “customers who want to lower their utility bills are able to successfully do so.”
Apollo Energy’s Sustainable Solar Services
Since 2016, Apollo Energy has proudly provided residents of Colorado and Southern Wyoming with honest solar power services. By always acting in the best interest of our customers and community, we have maintained steady growth for nearly 10 years, outlasting countless installers and sales organizations that have come and gone in the area.
While scams are on the rise, we have always done our best to educate homeowners about the value of approaching your solar installation with caution. By evaluating multiple options, you can weed out solar scams and find the best overall solution to lower your home’s ongoing electricity costs and carbon footprint.
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