A new bill introduced in Texas seeks to protect homeowners from fraudulent and misleading tactics used by some solar companies. The Residential Solar Retailer Regulatory Act proposes stricter regulations and penalties to ensure transparency and ethical conduct in the industry.
A new bill proposed in Texas aims to protect homeowners from predatory solar sales practices. The Residential Solar Retailer Regulatory Act, introduced by State Sen. Judith Zaffirini, is designed to address the widespread abuses documented in a San Antonio Express-News investigation. The bill would require solar companies and their sales representatives to register with the state, carry insurance, and adhere to strict ethical guidelines.
Deceptive practices, such as misleading customers about the cost and performance of solar systems, would be penalized with fines up to $100,000. The rapid growth of the rooftop solar industry in Texas over the past decade and a half, fueled by federal tax credits and the vulnerability exposed by Winter Storm Uri, has unfortunately attracted unscrupulous actors. The Express-News investigation revealed that over 50% of consumers filed complaints about unfinished, faulty, or non-functional systems. Another 28% reported significantly lower power output than promised, rendering their investments ineffective. The proposed legislation would establish a standard contract format, mandating clear disclosures about costs, financing, and performance expectations. It would also prohibit the use of false statements about federal rebates or utility affiliations, common tactics employed by door-to-door salespeople. The bill further strengthens consumer protection by requiring continuing education for sales representatives, subjecting them to criminal background checks, and allowing customers to cancel contracts within five business days. It aims to empower homeowners by providing them with education materials outlining their rights and remedies under the law. The legislation also mandates reasonable supervision of salespeople by solar companies to ensure compliance with ethical standards. While the bill focuses on residential solar installations, it excludes commercial projects, multi-unit buildings, and temporary or single-appliance installations. This comprehensive approach seeks to restore consumer confidence in the solar industry and promote responsible business practices
Solar Industry Consumer Protection Texas Legislation Deceptive Sales Practices Rooftop Solar Renewable Energy
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Solar-Powered Car Aims to Revolutionize Las Vegas Commute at CESAptera Motors showcased a solar-powered electric vehicle (EV) at CES 2023, aiming to provide a sustainable and cost-effective alternative for transportation in sunny cities like Las Vegas. The company claims the car can generate enough energy from the sun to cover 11,000 miles annually, eliminating the need for gas stations or charging. Las Vegas residents and visitors expressed enthusiasm for the technology's potential to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and improve air quality.
Read more »
Anker's Solix Solar Beach Umbrella harnesses Perovskite Solar TechAnker's new Solix Solar Beach Umbrella features a perovskite solar cell technology that promises higher efficiency and lower costs compared to traditional silicon-based cells. The umbrella can generate up to 100W of power, enough to keep Anker's Solix EverFrost 2 Electric Cooler running indefinitely in sunny conditions.
Read more »
Jackery’s Solar Roof announced alongside new solar generator at CES 2025Jackery’s Solar Roof features curved tiles in terra-cotta red or black with a 25 percent conversion efficiency, while its DC-DC car charger outputs 600W.
Read more »
Jackery Unveils Solar Roof Tiles, New Solar Generators at CES 2025Jackery is showcasing its latest innovations in home energy solutions and portable power at CES 2025.
Read more »
San Francisco Solar Company Aurora Solar Lays Off 58 WorkersAurora Solar, a San Francisco-based solar energy software company, has laid off 58 employees, marking the second round of job cuts in a year. The company cited 'ongoing macroeconomic challenges and continued uncertainty in the solar industry' as reasons for the layoffs. Aurora plans to refocus its business in response to the current market conditions.
Read more »
Texas senator aims to help NCAA limit NIL cash to athletesTexas Sen. Cruz, R-Texas, says helping the NCAA regulate booming athlete NIL market will be a 'major' priority for the Senate Commerce Committee this session.
Read more »