What are solar panels scams?

Solar panels are becoming increasingly popular among Britons.

Many companies offering to sell and install solar systems have appeared on the market. Unfortunately, the greater the boom and competition, the easier it is to get scammed for solar power systems by people taking advantage of customers' ignorance, trust or need to save money.

If you're thinking about installing solar panels in your home, you may be concerned about the potential for frauds. Read our article on what to look out for to avoid being cheated.

What to look for when considering the choice of solar panels?

Here are some things you should look out for if you're considering a solar system installation:

- Some companies will try to lure customers in with promotional offers or discounts that seem far lower than what other installers typically charge. While these offers can sometimes be legitimate, they often mask subpar products or services, so it's best to stay away from companies that promise a solar pannels installation at an unreasonably low cost.

- You should also be wary of installers who pressure you into making a decision or who seem to have lack basic knowledge about solar energy technology. Solar panels can be complicated and require specialized training, so it's important to work with an installer who has experience handling these systems and is able to answer your questions about them effectively.

- Some solar panel installers will use high-pressure sales tactics in order to try and convince homeowners to sign contracts for installation services without doing adequate research first. Common tactics include offering “free” consultations followed by high-pressure sales pitches, claiming that this investment is an incredibly low risk, and using “limited time” offers to pressure people into making a decision quickly.

- Fraudsters very often impersonate utility representatives. By claiming to be an employee of an institution you know, they can inspire more confidence in you. They will want to give you a better offer and encourage you to buy panels. Always check out any person who approaches you. Contact the company directly to check that the person in question is its representative. Try to use public telephones found on the internet, for example.

- Another warning sign is a company that promises unrealistic returns on investment or requires customers to take out loans for the installation instead of paying out-of-pocket. While solar panels can indeed help you save money in the long run, they aren't guaranteed to pay for themselves quickly or easily – especially if you're just starting out with solar energy.

- Another thing you need to watch out are fake reviews. Unfortunately, some solar panel installers post fake customer opinions to help improve their reputation and make people more likely to use their company.

By doing your research and carefully evaluating any installation offers, you can avoid falling victim to a solar panels scam and find a trusted installer who will help you enjoy the benefits of solar energy for years to come.

Free solar panels - is it possible?

Of course, that's not very likely, and if it's true there is always a catch.

One of the most common type of solar panel scams involve companies offering free or low-cost solar panel installations, in exchange for using the homeowner’s roof space which they often fail to mention up front. These companies may tell you that you won’t have to pay anything up front if you sign up with them, but will then charge inflated prices when the panels are installed. In some cases, the company may even go bankrupt before installing your panels, leaving you with no recourse to get a refund or compensation for your lost investment.

If you already have solar panels, you may find that companies referencing government grants and subsidies will want to offer you free solar panels. Their aim is to install the cheapest, poor quality panels albeit new ones and take away your expensive, best quality ones.

Remember that if something seems better than it actually is, there is usually something wrong. Be attentive to all signals.

Tips to avoid solar panel scams

For the best choice of solar company, follow this solar panel scam checklist:

- Do your research. Before you sign a power purchase agreement, check the reputation and reviews of solar power company.

- Take your time. Remember that you are signing a contract for many years, so don't succumb to pressure. If the salesperson is use high pressure sales tactics - back off. It never looks good.

- Never rely on just one offer - always collect at least two or three.

- Ask as many questions as you need to. If the seller is annoyed, this should turn on a red light in your head.

- Avoid companies trying to sell solar through door-knocking or cold calls. It doesn't always have to be the case that they are trying to scam you, as solar companies look for potential customers in different ways, but if you weren't expecting to be contacted by them, be particularly vigilant.

- Avoid solar panel companies that don't want to sign a contract with you.

- Watch out the solar lease offers. They are usually less favourable and contains many hidden costs. If you opt for this form of financing, make sure you read the contract carefully and are aware of all costs and charges.

Where to report solar scams?

If you think you could have been scammed speak to your bank immediately. You need to also report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.

Summary

Solar industry and renewable energy continues to grow. If you're considering a solar pannels installation, it's important to be aware of the warning signs of potential scams. After all, solar energy technology isn't cheap, and there are many opportunists who would love to take advantage of homeowners' desire to save money on their electric bills and help the environment.

Some common red flags include promotional offers that seem too good to be true, installers who pressure you into making decisions or who lack basic knowledge about solar energy technology, and companies that promise unrealistic returns on investment or require customers to take out loans instead of paying out-of-pocket.

To avoid these scams, do your research and carefully evaluate any installation offers to find a trusted installer who will help you enjoy the benefits of solar energy for years to come.