WHAT IS SOLAR SCAM?
Solar scams usually involve people claiming to be offering government rebates, selling energy saving devices or giving away free solar systems. Solar technology has been relatively unattainable for many years due to high solar panel costs. But due to incredible innovations and price reductions throughout the mid-2010s, solar panels are now more affordable than ever. In addition, many states have begun adding initiatives to stimulate the use of solar power systems. In response to the influx of homebuyers looking to get in on green energy (and cheaper electricity bills), all manner of bad actors, fraudulent installers, and outright scammers emerged.
Generally, we recommend avoiding people trying to sell solar through:
If you receive an unexpected call, email or house visit from someone offering any of the above, be aware there is a strong possibility that you have been targeted by a solar scam, especially if they demand payment or to sign-up on the spot. If you are unsure, ask for their company details so you can call them at another time to take up the offer so you can check they are legitimate. If they refuse and say you have to sign up on the spot, it is likely a scam.
THROUGH SOCIAL MEDIA SCAMS:
In the age of social media there are more companies who try to reach consumers through advertising on these platforms. Again, unscrupulous companies can just as easily advertise on these platforms as well-respected companies.
If the deal they are advertising seems too good to be true, it probably is, and the quality of the products and service you will receive might be very poor, leaving you worse off in the long run. If you do see advertising on social media that you are interested in, it’s worthwhile doing your research on the company, reading reviews from other customers and getting some comparative quotes from other companies.
SOLAR SCAMS MENTIONING THE CLEAN ENERGY COUNCIL:
Some companies may claim they are calling on behalf of the Clean Energy Council to sell solar. These claims are untrue. The Clean Energy Council does not sell solar systems, and we will never contact you offering to sell solar or offer you ‘free’ solar. Other scams using our name have involved door-to-door sales people using fake Clean Energy Council logos. We will never send out door-to-door salespeople representing the Clean Energy Council. Please contact us if you have concerns you have been targeted by any scam using our name or logo.
HOW COMMON ARE SOLAR PANELS SCAM:
Unfortunately, solar panel scams are relatively common in states with large solar markets or strong incentive programs. There is also a strong online market, particularly through social media ads and email campaigns promising “free solar panels” or “no more electricity bills.” Many reputable solar panel companies use these same mediums for advertisements, making it increasingly difficult for homeowners to differentiate scams
Many disreputable solar companies may try to sell you on a lease or power purchase agreement (PPA). These contracts are alternative financing options for solar power systems, often advertising “$0 down on owning solar panels” or “solar panels at no cost.” When approached honestly, leasing options and PPAs can be an excellent way to utilize solar power, especially if you don’t have cash for a down payment.
The scam element of these two types of financing options comes into play through the misconceptions surrounding ownership of the panels themselves. During the sale, a scammer may try to assure you that you’ll own the panels while also claiming you can reap valuable incentive programs or rebates, making a further profit. Neither financing option provides any form of ownership, excluding you from most federal and state incentive programs. PPAs and leases also add no value to your home and can, in the worst cases, come with hidden fees, unfavorable rates, and restrictive contracts that can be difficult (or costly) to break.
Unfortunately, forceful, aggressive, or dishonest sales tactics are all too common in most contracting fields, including solar panel installations. Fraudulent companies will try to force sales at any cost, even if the specifics of the installation are detrimental to the homeowner. There are plenty of underhanded ways representatives can try to close a sale, and some are more obvious than others.
Keep an eye out for some of the following signs you’re dealing with an underhanded salesperson. They might:
HOW TO AVOID SOLAR SCAMS…. GO SOLAR WITH GLOBAL:
Know Your State’s Average Solar Panel Cost
One of the most common ways solar panel scammers will try to take advantage of you is through higher rates. The best way to avoid this is to be educated on the going price of solar panels in your area. If you receive a quote that is either wildly above or below what is standard, it’s a clear sign that something is wrong. Work with one of the leading solar energy companies in the US and install your solar energy system confidently. Global energy solution has been helping businesses and homeowners go solar since 2006. We have successfully our projects. Our high performance solar and energy solutions not only reduce the energy costs but also increase the power reliability. We prioritize high quality products for excellent customer satisfaction.
No pushy sales tactics, no tall claims about savings – we’re here to help you transition responsibly to solar power. When you book a free consultation, we’ll:
Want to cut your electricity bill and reduce your carbon footprint? Contact us for more information about our solar energy systems.