Spend much time online and you are bound to be served a few ads tempting you to go solar at no cost. But there is no such thing as “free” rooftop solar power systems in Washington, according to local utilities and the state’s lead trade association for the solar sector.
Out-of-state sales lead generators and marketing companies are responsible for many of the dubious solar energy ads you encounter online. Deceptive and high-pressure in-person tactics are also generating complaints to state government, notably when salespeople overpromise on incentives and electricity bill savings. And, in some cases, homeowners have reported flawed installs that left their homes damaged and their new solar panels not working correctly.
In Olympia this winter, state lawmakers took a stab at addressing these issues by strengthening consumer protections for solar installations. The resulting bill now awaits Washington Gov. Jay Inslee’s signature.
