Rooftop solar power has a dark side

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🗞️ Driving the news: With the rapid growth of the rooftop solar sector, especially in the US, concerns are rising about companies promising savings and eco-friendly energy solutions but potentially skimping on service and imposing unfair practices and conditions

🔭 The context: The prevalent “as-a-service” model in solar leases allows consumers access to solar technology without significant upfront investments
• However, this model has led to companies like Spruce auto-debiting accounts while possibly neglecting service quality and imposing liens on customer homes, raising regulatory and legal concerns

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: The ethical implementation of solar services is crucial for the broader acceptance and success of renewable energy solutions, making it essential to balance consumer protection with the promotion of eco-friendly technologies

⏭️ What’s next: Regulators are exploring ways to address the gaps in the current regulatory framework to protect consumers while fostering the growth of solar technology
• The emphasis is on preventing unfair and abusive practices and ensuring companies honor their commitments

💬 One quote: “Consumers want solar panels, and nobody wants us to stop the availability of solar panels. They don’t want the government making it more difficult or getting in their way,” (General Tong, Connecticut Attorney)

📈 One stat: Around 6.4 gigawatts of rooftop solar was installed in the U.S. in 2022, a record-breaking number

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