Connecticut attorney general warns consumers on misleading or aggressive solar companies

Connecticut Attorney General William Tong and Department of Consumer Protection Commissioner Michelle Seagull issued an advisory to homeowners in the state to be wary of misleading marketing and aggressive sales tactics by solar companies.

The alert follows a significant number of complaints from consumers that have led to investigations into multiple solar companies regarding sales and marketing practices.

“Residential solar may help reduce electric bills and dependence on fossil fuels to power our electric grid, but consumers must proceed with caution. We have received numerous complaints regarding misleading marketing and high-pressure sales tactics by solar companies, and we have several active investigations. Solar power purchase agreements or lease agreements are often long-term, complex, and can be expensive. Any electric bill savings varies per household depending on many factors,” Tong said. “While electric rates are high and we are all looking for ways to save money, consumers should never feel pressured into a solar contract or any other major home project.”

Tong and Seagull warned consumers to pay particular attention to a few key ideas when considering residential solar. Specifically, they should determine whether their home gets adequate sun exposure to justify the solar panel investment; whether their current roof will need replacement during the projected life of the solar panels; how tax credits and refunds work; the effect solar panels may have on their home’s value; and how selling their home would be affected if leasing solar panels.

They also urged consumers, especially seniors, to be aware of potential high-pressure sales tactics to sign them up for expensive long-term solar contracts.

“Solar power can be an attractive option for people looking to reduce their utility costs and carbon footprint, but we are hearing from a number of consumers that the deal they were offered proved to be too good to be true,” Seagull said. “Consumers should be cautious when entering into a solar contract – do extensive research, compare costs, understand if your home is suitable for rooftop solar, and don’t allow yourself to fall victim to high-pressure sales tactics.”

Finally, they said consumers should ensure that the solar companies are properly licensed in Connecticut. Many solar companies contract out their marketing and installations to third parties.

Consumers who believe they have been harmed by a solar company’s practices should file a complaint with the Office of the Attorney General.