Solar Panel Scam
In this scam, solar panel or home energy sellers use door-to-door or online pitches with inflated savings claims, fake grants, and high pressure, taking deposits for systems that underperform or are never installed.
Quick verdict
What this scam usually looks like
In this scam, solar panel or home energy sellers use door-to-door or online pitches with inflated savings claims, fake grants, and high pressure, taking deposits for systems that underperform or are never installed.
Example message pattern
This is a fictional, anonymised example used to illustrate the pattern. It is not a verified real message, and any names are used only to show how the scam typically reads.
Red flags to watch for
- Inflated or 'guaranteed' savings claims
- Pressure to sign or pay a deposit immediately
- Claims of limited-time grants or subsidies
- Vague contracts and finance terms
- A company you cannot independently verify
What to do
- Get multiple independent quotes before committing
- Verify the company, reviews, and any grant independently
- Never sign or pay under pressure on the day
- Read contracts and finance terms carefully
If you already clicked or replied
- If you paid a deposit, check cancellation rights and dispute if misled
- Keep contracts, quotes, and messages as evidence
- Report misleading sales to consumer authorities
- Seek independent advice before any installation
What not to do
- Do not sign or pay a deposit on the spot
- Do not trust 'deadline today' grant claims
- Do not skip independent quotes and checks
Similar scams
Rogue Trader Scam
A rogue trader is a doorstep or online 'tradesperson' offering driveway, roofing, gardening or repair work at a tempting price. They press for a large cash deposit upfront, then carry out poor or unfinished work, 'discover' extra problems that were never there, and inflate the final bill. Older homeowners are often targeted. Taking time to get the offer in writing and to compare quotes can reveal the pressure tactics for what they are.
Energy Rebate Scam
This scam claims you are owed an energy bill rebate, refund, or cost-of-living payment from your supplier or government, then links to a fake claim page that harvests your bank or card details.
Extended Warranty Scam
Calls, robocalls, texts, or mailers claim your product or vehicle warranty is expiring and pressure you to buy an overpriced or worthless 'extended warranty', using urgency to collect card and personal details.
Frequently asked questions
How do I buy solar safely?
Are 'limited-time grant' claims real?
I paid a deposit. Can I cancel?
Why are savings claims a concern?
Last reviewed: June 2026