Are people deceived by solar financing companies?

We don't want people deceived, though,” says Adam Welle, a lawyer with the Minnesota Attorney General's Office who is pursuing a case against solar financing companies. Beyond the industry’s reputation, real people – many of them already financially vulnerable – have been hurt.

Why is Minnesota suing a solar loan company?

Minnesota is suing firms who finance solar power systems for homes. The case alleges that four lending companies deceived customers with hidden, upfront fees in exchange for lower interest rates. “It's misleading people about the price of the system and misleading people about the price of financing,” says Assistant Attorney General Welle.

Are solar systems a cost-saving misrepresentation?

Costs and savings misrepresentations, in particular, have typically spurred the ire of state AGs when solar companies exaggerate their systems’ potential to save consumers money, despite financing that may end up costing the consumer more.

Why are solar companies misrepresented?

Misrepresentations have spurred the ire of state AGs when solar companies exaggerate their systems’ potential to save consumers money, despite financing that may end up costing the consumer more. Solar panel installer installing solar panels on roof of modern house. Eloi Omella via Getty Images

Should solar companies be able to report a scam?

By getting more consumers to report scammy solar companies, government officials said, they can more effectively track complaints and seek to hold accountable companies that violate the law.

Does rooftop solar have a fraud problem?

Rooftop solar has a fraud problem. The industry is working to build back trust A crew installs a solar array on the roof of a home in Frankfort, Ky., in 2023. PHILADELPHIA — The solar power industry is booming and that growth helps the world meet its climate goals by replacing fossil fuels.