Are solar panels a scam?

With that demand comes fierce competition within the solar panel market. Scams, schemes and straight-up fraud abound in the dark underbelly of an otherwise light-filled industry. While there are still many honest and reliable solar panel companies on the market, it can be hard to differentiate the good guys from the rest.

Is residential solar a scam?

When done right, going solar can substantially reduce your carbon footprint and your energy costs. However, this rare double-whammy of benefits also makes the residential solar industry ripe for scams.

How do I avoid solar panel scams?

Getting multiple quotes and thoroughly vetting installers is the best way to avoid solar panel scams. You can also use solar.com to compare quotes from our network of thoroughly vetted installers.

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.

Are homeowners paying for solar panels in a lease or PPA?

In short, free solar panel ads are typically for leases and power purchase agreements (PPAs). These arrangements are basically long-term solar system rentals in which the solar company owns the panels and homeowners pay a monthly fee in lieu of their electricity bill. So, are homeowners technically paying for solar panels in a lease or PPA? No.

Is my solar panel installer going out of business?

If you're not sure whether your solar panel installer has gone out of business, and a cold caller is insisting they are taking over, don't take their word for it. In this instance, it turned out to be a scam. Instead, check your original installer's website and try the contact details you were given when your panels were installed.