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.

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.

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.

What should I do if a solar business is a scam?

Protect your personal information. Don’t respond to unexpected requests online or on social media for your name, address, or other personal information to “see if you qualify.” At best, this is someone generating leads to sell, not actual solar businesses. At worst, they’re scammers trying to steal your identity.

How do I avoid solar scams?

Here are some of our recommendations for avoiding solar scams: The saying "there's no such thing as a free lunch" applies when shopping for solar! If you see ads on social media or have a door-to-door salesperson stop by your home and share special programs that pay you to go solar, they're likely, not legitimate.

Are solar business leads a scam?

At best, this is someone generating leads to sell, not actual solar businesses. At worst, they’re scammers trying to steal your identity. If you spot a scam, tell the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.