The number of solar panels installed in the U.S. is expected to quadruple over the next ten years. As solar has emerged as a profitable alternative to fossil fuels, it has seen the rise of some questionable business practices. In pursuit of profits, some solar companies prioritize their interests over those of the customer.
ReVision Energy has been in the solar industry for over twenty years, and we know transparency is key. All solar companies, including ReVision, have a financial stake in the industry's growth. However, the long-term success of clean energy – and the long-term success of the planet! - depends on prioritizing people above profit. Solar scams and aggressive sales tactics will only hurt the industry – and the planet! - in the long run.
There’s a LOT of information out there and we know it can be overwhelming. We’ve organized key points for you in this guide. Look for these flags at the top of every section.
Red Flags These mean you should be very cautious or even walk away – these point to shady practices, solar scams, or serious issues that could end up costing you.
Yellow Flags Proceed carefully – these aren't necessarily deal-breakers, but you should be aware of these pros and cons before making a decision.
Green Flags Green is great! These mean the company is trustworthy and reliable.
Some solar companies use aggressive door-to-door tactics that can push homeowners to hasty decisions. As a consumer, it can be frustrating and confusing when a representative in your house pushes you to sign a contract because their company is “only offering a special deal in your neighborhood for the next few days.” At first glance the deal may look good, but take the time to dig into the details. These high-pressure situations can result in homeowners signing contracts with hidden terms.
Some solar companies package solar leases into asset-backed securities to sell to investors. This investor-owned business structure creates immediate profits and facilitates fast growth, but puts pressure on salespeople to sell more, quickly. This can lead to unethical sales behaviors and misleading advertising, as investor profit and sales targets overshadows customer service and integrity.
Salespeople sometimes misrepresent the company they work for, make unrealistic savings or energy production promises, or offer "free" systems with undisclosed hidden costs. Later in this guide, we’ll cover what to look out for in a solar quote.
Aggressive door knocking sales tactics may look like:
If you feel pressured, say no and close the door. Solar is a long-term investment, and trustworthy companies will respect your need for time and information.
Additionally, remember that you have legal protection. The FTC's "Cooling-Off Rule" gives you three days to cancel signed contracts. Just tell the salesperson you know you're entitled to the cooling-off period. And know that any contract you sign in your home must legally include:
If any of this information is missing, you can cancel the contract.
Have you ever seen an advertisement like one of these?
Some ads suggest that state programs will cover all solar costs. This just isn’t true!
No state or town offers completely free solar installations.
Another misleading advertising tactic is stating that an incentive program ends soon, creating a false sense of urgency and pressure. Some incentives do have expiration dates, but the big one - the federal solar tax credit - has been extended until 2032, so there’s still plenty of time to take advantage of it.
Red flags: "Free" conversions on a first come, first serve basis. No information regarding what company this ad represents. Claims that neighborhoods are individually chosen for solar eligibility.
Red flag: Creating a false sense of urgency by stating that homeowners must install this year in order to qualify for the federal solar tax credit.
Claims like these can lead homeowners to make decisions based on inaccurate information, resulting in unexpected costs and disappointment.
Think you’ve seen an ad that’s too good to be true? It is, so watch out for:
Fraudulent "free solar" ads often hide long-term contract commitments or escalating payments.
If you suspect a solar scam, report it to your state's attorney general, consumer protection office, or the FTC.
Ask the right questions to decide whether a solar company will be a good long-term partner.
