Are solar panels a scam or a cold call?

Here are the cold calls and potential scams to avoid. More than a third of solar PV panel owners in our recent survey told us they have been cold called about their panels in the past five years. Most cold callers were trying to sell them something unnecessary, but a few owners were told something completely untrue.

Is going solar a scam?

It’s likely a scam. While there are some government-funded solar programs for households that qualify, “going solar” isn’t free. Honest businesses will tell you exactly how much it’ll cost to get and install solar panels. Here’s how to steer clear of the scams: Do some research.

Are 'upselling scams' causing a surge in solar panel fraud?

However, homeowners making the most of the Government’s solar panel drive have increasingly fallen victim to conmen. Citizens Advice has warned of a surge in solar panel fraud, particularly “upselling scams” in which cold-callers convince customers to upgrade technology they already have to meet fabricated legal “standards”.

Are solar panels and heat pumps a target for criminals?

Criminals have been taking advantage of homeowners installing solar panels and heat pumps as part of the Government’s green drive. Eco-friendly households have increasingly fallen prey to scammers and cowboy builders, who have used the energy crisis and concerns surrounding utility bills to target victims.

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.

What are energy scams?

Energy scams involve people pretending to be energy companies or regulators to get your money or personal information. These scammers may pretend to be your energy company, say they’re from Ofgem or even from Energy Saving Trust to try and gain your trust.