FAQ #2: Are solar panels really free? What's the catch?

Unfortunately, the answer is no. Cheaper, yes. But not 100% free.

This question is usually asked at the start of an unfortunate solar fraud story. Solar panel fraud is prevalent in the alternative energy industry. There are many terrifying homeowners stories in the local news in California about scammers taking advantage of susceptible homes, claiming to be from verified solar companies.

In the solar marketing world, the word “free” is used liberally, initially raising homeowners suspicions about the solar adoption procedure. With enough investigation, it should not be difficult to find a plan that is best for your home and begin enjoying all the solar benefits.The word “free” usually implies a “lease” and not the sole ownership of them. You may save money initially, but you will be bound to contract for a set period of time.

There are many reputable solar companies out there that claim to give you “free solar panels” or “solar panels for cheap”. Homeowners should listen to that initial feeling they get when they feel like they’re about to be scammed. This is because that statement is definitely too good to be true.

Anything free actually comes at a price.

Here’s how the “Solar Scam” works:

1. When you receive an unexpected call, email or house visit from someone offering “free solar panels”

2. The scammer may pressure you into making a hurried decision, claiming rebates are going to close soon and asking you to make immediate payments on the spot - often by prepaid debit cards

3. The scammer may claim to be from a legitimate company, that sells solar panels and makes arrangements to come to your home - but never actually shows up to the appointment

Suspect a Solar Scammer? What to do next:

Important Note: If you think you’ve already provided sensitive information to a solar scammer in the past, contact your bank or financial institution immediately

Keep track of all solar companies that offer free replacement of PV panels on existing solar systems. The “free panels” are very likely to be cheap and low quality. You might be swapping currently existing “high-quality” product for a lower quality product without even knowing it.

If you have been contacted by someone asking for immediate direct payment, hang up the phone OR call the local police.

If someone claiming to work for a verified solar company (regardless of the solar brand) knocks on your door, ask for verification ALWAYS.

Report “Solar Panels For Your Home” scams as soon as you detect them. You can report the scammers directly to the Federal Trade Commission.

How to Protect Yourself and Others from Future Solar Fraud

The simplest solution to solar panel fraud is educating yourself before solar fraudulence actually reaches your phone or your home. Learn how to identify the real solar companies from scammers from the get go and teach other homeowners who may also be interested in going solar. If you have made the decision to adopt solar for your home, always look at quotes/bids from at least two to three different solar installation companies in your area first and check their reviews online from accredited sources.

Network with other homeowners with solar panels in your CA neighborhood or area. Asking questions and getting insight to their investment options will help you make an informed decision in your community. Teach others how to detect fraud. 

As always, the best offense to "Solar Fraud" and "Solar Scammers" is doing your own research and looking closely into reputable solar companies that have laid out their payment programs well - buying, leasing or buying with a financial payment plan like PACE. 

With the vast amount of financial options, Hahasmart is dedicated to ensuring the journey towards providing a greener future and converting your home to solar be made as easy as possible. 

More Information:

Read our extensive blog about Comparing Multiple Quotes and Financing Your Solar System