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NORFOLK, Va. — As the solar energy industry continues to expand across Virginia, some homeowners are raising red flags about aggressive sales tactics and confusing claims tied to potential savings.
While solar energy itself is not a scam, consumer advocates warn that certain companies and independent contractors may use deceptive strategies to pressure residents into signing contracts.
Recently, 13News Now received multiple reports from viewers concerned about pushy door-to-door solicitors claiming they could save homeowners thousands of dollars, but only after reviewing their energy bills.
“He did not introduce himself,” said one woman. “He started in on what he was trying to talk about, and about 45 seconds in, I said, ‘Well, who are you — are you with Dominion?’ And he said, ‘No, I’m a partner of Dominion.'”
The woman, who wanted to remain anonymous, said she immediately felt uneasy when a man with a clipboard knocked on her door and asked to see her latest energy bill.
The solicitor allegedly claimed she qualified for a significant rebate through a solar panel program that could save her thousands of dollars.
However, 13News Now contacted Dominion Energy, which clarified that while the company honors certain solar credits, it does not offer direct rebates through door-to-door programs. A spokesperson also emphasized that official Dominion Energy employees and representatives always carry proper identification badges.
The Norfolk woman told 13News Now that while she shut her door, she knew the solicitor had some measure of success while talking to her neighbors as he continued moving door-to-door.
“I’m obviously not the only person who’s been affected by this, and there are a lot of vulnerable people out here who trust people who look official,” she said. “He had a sample bill from Dominion Energy, and it all looked very real.”
13News Now got in contact with the solar panel company the woman described, called Arcadia, which is merged with Perch Energy.
A spokesperson with Perch Energy said the representatives in this case were removed, and additional training and oversight have been implemented. The company said they do in fact sell solar panels, which they said can lead to savings in the long run.
“We take concerns about sales conduct seriously,” said James Feinstein with Perch Energy. “Door-to-door outreach remains one of the most effective ways to connect people with these benefits, and maintaining strict compliance and training standards is essential to building trust in these communities.”
Cherise Newsome with Dominion Energy said customers are never required to share their billing information, and that information is not shared by Dominion Energy.
“Customers with questions about their account can call us directly at (866) DOM-HELP. Also, customers can visit this website for tips on avoiding utility scams,” Newsome said.
