Monty Montes and his wife contacted KMBC for help with solar panels that did not work
Monty Montes and his wife contacted KMBC for help with solar panels that did not work
Monty Montes and his wife contacted KMBC for help with solar panels that did not work
A retired Marine in Belton, Missouri, hopes his electricity bill goes down after a KMBC 9 News investigation.
Monty Montes and his wife received help immediately after KMBC’s story last week from the owner of a Parkville-based solar company, Solar Guys USA.
Jesse Wiederin, owner of Solar Guys USA, saw how Montes and his wife received solar panels from a company that has since gone bankrupt.
He offered to help Montes finish hooking up the solar system, even making calls to Evergy on his behalf. The utility company installed a new meter on Wednesday, and Montes is thankful for the help.
“I appreciate everything that has been done,” Montes said.
Montes and his wife have made monthly payments on a loan for the solar panels that will cost more than $42,000 including principal and interest.
“You gotta do your homework,” Montes said. “You gotta make sure that individuals are legit.”
Montes and his wife originally contacted KMBC 9 Investigates to get answers about their next steps. They have now hired an attorney and are seeking guidance for their solar contract.
Wiederin of Solar Guys USA encouraged anyone else considering solar system to do your research, check reviews and don’t rush into a decision. He said reputable solar installers abide by codes of ethics and make sure customers understand the entire process.
“If somebody is trying to rush you through the process, then it’s being done wrong,” he said.
Bob Solger, founder and emeritus board member of the Missouri Solar Energy Industries Association and managing partner of Solar Design Studio reiterated that to KMBC on Wednesday. Solger says you should always look to see if the company is part of the MSEIA in Missouri, or Clean Energy Business Council in Kansas, both organizations that abide by codes of ethics.
KMBC continues to investigate problems with solar installations or high debt loans.
If you are a victim of solar panel loan fraud or your solar panel system is not working as advertised, email investigative reporter Matt Flener at investigates@kmbc.com.
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