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.

Why are prosecutors investigating rooftop solar?

Across the country, prosecutors are investigating high-pressure sales tactics and misleading financing arrangements. Some customers say they were victims of fraud and forgery. This threatens rooftop solar’s impressive momentum. Now, some solar companies are working to repair the industry’s reputation.

Are solar panels a scam?

This feature is available for registered users. Please register or log in to continue Households with solar panels are at increased risk of being scammed as new figures show a sharp rise in fraudsters tempting victims with energy-saving deals.

Are solar customers victims of fraud & forgery?

Across the country, prosecutors are investigating high-pressure sales tactics and misleading financing arrangements. Some customers say they were victims of fraud and forgery. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau recently warned solar customers about hidden fees and deceptive statements about the financial benefits of solar.

Are solar panels being targeted by fraudsters using feed-in tariffs?

Households that have already installed solar panels are also being targeted by fraudsters using publicly available information from feed-in tariffs, warned Dr Tim Jones, of Cornwall-based charity Community Energy Plus.

Who were the victims of a £17m solar scheme?

Today a jury at Liverpool Crown Court found six men guilty of running a £17m fraudulent scheme to install solar panels which defrauded 1,500 victims including elderly, retired and vulnerable people.