How to spot solar scams - and what to expect from us

With the rising popularity of solar panels, there’s also been an increase in solar-related scams. In this article will help you understand what to watch out for, how to protect yourself, and what you can expect from Good Energy if you’re one of our customers.

How can you spot a solar scam?

Our solar teams speak with our current and prospective customers every day, and have noticed a worrying rise in the numbers of people reporting scams to us. Here are some of the common themes that have been reported:

• Scams masquerading as government grants such as the ‘Green Homes Scheme’. This scam is targeting UK homes with solar panels. It claims to offer customers a £4,000 grant and a 10p uplift to their Feed-in Tariff (FIT) payments – but only if they agree to upgrade their solar panels. This is not a genuine offer. FIT payments are set by the government and cannot be changed by anyone else. What’s more, some changes to your system could lose your entitlement to FIT payments altogether.  

• Companies falsely claiming your original installer has gone out of business, pushing you to join them for an expensive servicing or maintenance package for exceptionally long periods.
• Companies pressuring you to replace perfectly good equipment. This might include pressure to upgrade your ‘broken’ inverter which could impact your ability to claim FIT payments; or fearmongering around your system being unsafe. We’ve even been made aware of individuals knocking on customers doors, gaining access, turning off a customer’s inverter and claiming it’s broken so the customer buys an expensive replacement.

Here are some general red flags to look out for:

• Unsolicited contact – Cold calls, doorstep visits, or unexpected emails from companies you don’t know.
• Pressure to act fast – Scammers rush you into decisions. Reputable companies give you time to think.
• Poor communication – Spelling mistakes, vague details, or no clear contact information can be signs of a scam.
• Targeting the vulnerable – Scammers often target vulnerable people such as the elderly, or people living with dementia, asking them to sign for expensive work. It’s important to know that even if you, or a family member has signed for the work, you are entitled to a 14 day cooling off period and can cancel the work.

How can you protect yourself from being scammed?

If you’re looking to upgrade your existing solar system, or install new solar panels, here’s how to make sure you’re getting quality work from a reputable installer.

• Use MCS-accredited installers – This ensures work meets industry standards and is properly documented.
• Never sign under pressure – Take your time to review quotes and options before you sign for work; and remember you’re entitled to a 14 day cooling off period.
• Do your research – Check reviews, request case studies, and confirm credentials before choosing your installer.
• Speak to your FIT provider – If you’re with Good Energy, we’re happy to advise you on compliant upgrades.

What could happen if you fell for a solar scam?

Scams don’t just hit your wallet – they can affect your whole solar setup:

• You might pay for work you don’t need – and that isn’t completed correctly.
• You could lose your Feed-in Tariff payments if non-compliant changes are made to your system.
• Your system’s performance might be degraded, especially if low-quality components are installed.

What should you expect from Good Energy?

If we are your Feed-in Tariff administrator:

• We’ll never share your details with a third party.
• Any official communications about your FiT will come directly from us, and will be clearly marked with our branding and your name.
• As a registered solar installer and FIT licencee, we understand how to upgrade solar systems while safeguarding FIT payments. Before committing to any upgrades, please reach out to us for advice so we can help you understand your options and protect your payments.
  

If we installed your solar panels:

• We won’t pass your information on to another company.
• If we were unable to continue servicing your area, we’d let you know directly and introduce you to a recommended company.
• We would never pressure you to upgrade your system or agree to a quick sale. You can trust us to only make transparent recommendations that work for your home and your needs.
  

By staying informed and cautious, you can protect your investment and your peace of mind. And if you’re a Good Energy customer, you can rest assured: we’ll never cold call you, pressure you, or share your details with anyone else. If you’re ever unsure whether a letter or offer is genuine, please get in touch. We’re here to help.