Hello solar enthusiasts and savvy homeowners! Today I want to take an in-depth look at a somewhat alarming trend that has been unfolding within the solar industry. You may have seen in recent headlines that certain individuals and solar companies are facing legal action, after being accused of some rather unsavory practices. Unfortunately, this includes everything from forgery and false impersonation to unlawfully installing solar panels for your home.
The entire debacle tracked back to a couple from Connecticut and several solar companies who were sued by the state’s very own Attorney General. The charges? Committing crimes like impersonating homeowners and installing solar panels without the rightful owner’s permission. A sobering reminder for everyone to be cautious when navigating the solar market.
According to reports, one solar array for home was proposed to a homeowner by Sierra Howes and Dakota Grumet, principals at Elevate Solar Solutions. The offer proposed a residential solar project with a cost of $306 per month. However, when the homeowner declined the deal, an employee from Bright Planet allegedly forged their digital signatures. If that was not audacious enough, another employee from the same solar company ended up impersonating the owner during a call with the installation team at Sunrun – a clear violation of ethical sales practices.
Adding salt to the wound, Sunrun installed a massive 14.22 kW residential system merely a week after the deceptive call, completely bypassing the formal requirement for permits. This case, known as the Windsor Transaction, alongside two other instances in Stafford Springs and Wethersfield, have laid out a pattern of unethical behavior and malpractice in the solar industry. The damage extends to the homeowners who were not only left with solar panels they didn’t authorize but were later slapped with exorbitant costs that exceeded their original budgets.
As these tales unfold, it’s essential that we, as consumers, stay vigilant and well-informed about our rights and the processes involved when dealing with solar companies. It’s unfortunate that such episodes cast a cloud over the otherwise bright and promising potential of the solar industry. Despite these setbacks, remember that going solar remains a worthwhile endeavor, offering great potential for affordable, green energy generation for your home.
Stay informed and never hesitate to question the details of your solar panel installation project – from understanding the fine print to ensuring that the necessary permits have been procured. Prioritize communication with your chosen solar company, and do not hesitate to seek professional advice if any aspect of the deal seems suspicious or unclear.
This story is a reminder that while there are many excellent and ethical solar companies out there, it’s essential to practice due diligence in your quest for clean, renewable energy. So, keep an eye out, do your homework, and remember that the road to a sustainable future is one we must tread responsibly and knowledgeably.
Original Articlehttps://pv-magazine-usa.com/2024/08/14/what-happens-when-solar-is-installed-without-homeowners-permission/
