Is going solar a scam?

It’s likely a scam. While there are some government-funded solar programs for households that qualify, “going solar” isn’t free. Honest businesses will tell you exactly how much it’ll cost to get and install solar panels. Here’s how to steer clear of the scams: Do some research.

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”.

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 solar panels a scam or a cold call?

Here are the cold calls and potential scams to avoid. More than a third of solar PV panel owners in our recent survey told us they have been cold called about their panels in the past five years. Most cold callers were trying to sell them something unnecessary, but a few owners were told something completely untrue.

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.

How many people have been sentenced for solar panel fraud?

The 6 offenders were sentenced by His Honour Judge Warnock: Six men have been sentenced for a total of just over 30 years for their part in a £17 million solar panel fraud scheme.