Residents across Wisconsin are complaining those free solar panel offers could cost you; plus, four tips to find a trustworthy deal

The idea of adding solar panels to your home is appealing for many residents in Wisconsin. It’s considered a cost-effective, carbon-free way to generate electricity.

But, growing interest in solar includes a warning for homeowners after an increase in complaints about phony free solar panel offers. And you’ll want to watch out. In some cases, consumers ended up losing money on what started out as an opportunity for free solar panels.

How does this solar scam work?

This rip-off is taking many forms. One homeowner reports being approached by a door-to-door salesperson who claimed he could offer the resident a new roof plus solar equipment, and with a government rebate, would only end up paying for the solar equipment. The homeowner complained to the Better Business Bureau of Wisconsin after learning the rebate program exists, but the sales tactic used in this situation was misleading and misrepresented the rebate program in an effort to make a sale.

Another homeowner complained when a conversation with a solar representative turned nasty. The salesperson wanted the resident’s personal banking information to hold a date for her free installation. In this case, the con artist tried to trick the resident out of her money. Luckily, it didn’t work.

You may receive your own sales pitch from someone in-person, but there are reports of emails, phone calls, and even social media posts offering the installation of solar panels for a very low cost, and many times, for free. But there will be pressure for you to make an immediate decision with no time to consider the consequences. This can include the scammer asking for your banking information to “see if you qualify,” or you may be asked to pay upfront costs, which “will be reimbursed.” In the end, you may never see them again. And you aren’t just being ripped off, you aren’t getting those solar panels you expected either.

How do you find a trustworthy offer?

There are reputable solar energy contractors and genuine incentive programs do exist. But before accepting any kind of offer, here’s what the Better Business Bureau of Wisconsin suggests:

1. Do your research. Start by looking into solar businesses in your community. Does the company have a good reputation? Are there questions about its business practices? Learn as much as you can before signing a service contract.
2. Don’t give in to high-pressure sales tactics. Scammers hope to get an emotional reaction from you. They want you to give in to their requests without thinking it through. Slow down the discussion and take your time with your decision. A legitimate company should never pressure you to take action.
3. Do consider different bids. If you are planning to go solar, contact several installation companies and get a bid from each one. The competition should help you spot if someone is a scammer.
4. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Considering a proposal or contract but you aren’t sure you understand every aspect of it? Be sure to get the answers you need to feel comfortable moving forward with your solar project. A legitimate company representative should not get upset by your questions or refuse to answer. It this happens, it’s a red flag.