Have you been bombarded with advertisements mentioning how to get solar panels for free?
Beware these claims, as they are at best misleading, and at worst downright wrong.
With so much investment in distributed energy (rooftop solar), there are bound to be a few bad actors ready to take advantage of those trying to invest in their renewable energy future.[gem_youtube video_id=”K1uH0jLrN3w”]But make no mistake, these national solar companies are counting on you to sign first and think later.QUICK LINKS
Solar costs nothing to install or is somehow free
New roofing is covered by the 30% federal tax credit
You’ll get paid to go solar
How can you protect yourself from solar scams?
In this post, we’ll examine claims about how to get free solar panels and shed light on these claim’s potential pitfalls.Don’t be fooled by this claim! There has never been free solar anywhere in the Northwest, even for low-income folks.
Long-lasting solar energy systems require experienced technicians and long-term support which cost real money.
You wouldn’t want just anyone fixing your home’s plumbing or wiring your electrical system, right?
The same goes for a complex electrical system like solar panels and battery backup.
Remember, if something seems too good to be true, it most likely is…Yes, some lenders will cover the cost of a new roof, but it could not be any clearer in the IRS tax code that roofing is excluded from the federal tax credit. Experienced solar contractors will tell you this. Only solar shingles (like Tesla’s ill-fated experiment) could potentially qualify (see IRS 5695, “Qualified solar electric property costs”).Implying you’re getting paid to go solar? This is so misleading!
Between the utility, the state, and the feds, absolutely nobody is cutting you a check to generate energy for your home.
The reality is that solar equipment for your home is exempt from Washington state taxes, and the federal government offers a 30% solar tax credit to support the cost of installing solar panels.
Don’t worry Oregonians! There are generous Oregon solar incentives as well that can reduce the cost of installing solar panels!
What’s more, most of the ~90 utilities in Washington and Oregon will give you a bill credit (net energy metering) for the excess solar energy you send back to the grid.National solar companies often employ high-pressure tactics to convince customers to sign contracts immediately.
Sign NOW… “interest rates are going up” or “Discount we’re offering expires today”.
Don’t fall for it.
Instead, get proposals from local solar companies that care for the integrity of the solar industry, and want the best for their customers.
Because signing immediately ensures you’ll never know how a local solar company could save you time, money, and a whole lot of grief.
How can you protect yourself from solar scams?
Before signing a contract, check to make sure the solar company is appropriately licensed.
Oregon: https://www.oregon.gov/ccb/Pages/index.aspx
Washington: https://secure.dor.wa.gov/gteunauth/_/
Check reviews left by other consumers who’ve worked with the solar contractor. We recommend Google, Yelp, and social media websites like Facebook and NextDoor.
The most important step you can take to protect yourself from unscrupulous solar companies is to get multiple bids.
This is just one of the many solar scams homeowners need to watch out for. Keep reading our Solar Scams Series to stay informed and protect yourself from other common tricks used by shady solar salespeople.
[gem_textbox content_background_color=”#F4F6F7″ rectangle_corner=”lt” border_color=”#DD9933″ border_radius=”10″] Exposed: The Tricks Hidden in Your Solar QuoteLearn how shady companies hide fees and overpromise savings[/gem_textbox][gem_textbox rectangle_corner=”lt” border_color=”#DD9933″ border_radius=”10″] The Truth Behind ‘Free Solar’ OffersUncover the fine print in those zero-cost solar ads[/gem_textbox][gem_textbox rectangle_corner=”lt” border_color=”#DD9933″ border_radius=”10″] Low Interest Rate? High Dealer Fees You Didn’t SeeThese ‘cheap’ loans may cost thousands more than you think[/gem_textbox][gem_textbox rectangle_corner=”lt” border_color=”#DD9933″ border_radius=”10″] No, You Can’t Claim Solar Depreciation For Your HomeThis business-only tax perk is being misused in sales pitches[/gem_textbox][gem_textbox rectangle_corner=”lt” border_color=”#DD9933″ border_radius=”10″] Act Fast? Not So Fast—Solar’s Fake DeadlinesWhy urgency tactics are a huge red flag in solar sales[/gem_textbox][gem_textbox rectangle_corner=”lt” border_color=”#DD9933″ border_radius=”10″] No, Your Roof Isn’t Covered by the Solar Tax CreditSalespeople love saying it is—here’s why they’re wrong[/gem_textbox][gem_textbox rectangle_corner=”lt” border_color=”#DD9933″ border_radius=”10″] 100% Offset? The Myth of the Perfect Solar SystemPromises of total energy savings often don’t add up[/gem_textbox][gem_textbox rectangle_corner=”lt” border_color=”#DD9933″ border_radius=”10″] Free Panel Removal Later? Think AgainWhat happens when your roof needs work and your installer ghosts you[/gem_textbox][gem_textbox rectangle_corner=”lt” border_color=”#DD9933″ border_radius=”10″] Vetted by Utilities? Check That Claim TwiceSome companies falsely claim their from your utility to earn your trust[/gem_textbox]
