When temperatures rise, utility costs do, too. While reputable companies can help you save money with clean or solar energy improvements, scammers offer more than they can deliver. The scams vary, but here’s the gist: someone claiming to be with the government or your utility company promises big savings on your utility bills from solar energy or other home improvements designed to increase energy efficiency. If you agree to the scammer’s offer, it could cost you tens of thousands of dollars.
These scams start with an unexpected phone call, message on social, or even an in-person visit. The so-called official offers you an “energy audit” to reduce your utility costs. Or they might try to sign you up for a “free” program to make your home more energy efficient with solar energy. While they might say they’re from your utility company or the government, they’re not. And while they promise free or low-cost solar panels, or offer you huge rebates, tax credits, or utility incentives to pay for those solar panels, those are lies. Some so-called officials even say your utility company already signed you up for the program, so now you need to pay. That is, of course, also a scam.
To protect yourself from clean energy scams:
- Know that “free” or “no cost” solar panel offers are scams. The federal government does not install solar systems in homes for free. If you’re considering whether solar energy is right for you, check out the Department of Energy’s guide for homeowners and learn more. Or check out the Department of Treasury’s guidance on clean energy.
- Take your time. Anyone who pressures you into a contract or demands up-front or immediate payment is a scammer. Legitimate businesses and government agencies don’t pressure you to act immediately and won’t tell you to pay with cash, gift card, wire transfer, payment app, or cryptocurrency. But imposters will. Learn more at ftc.gov/imposters.
- Protect your personal information. Don’t respond to unexpected requests online or on social media for your name, address, or other personal information to “see if you qualify.” At best, this is someone generating leads to sell, not actual solar businesses. At worst, they’re scammers trying to steal your identity.
If you spot a scam, tell the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
