A homeowner and a real estate agent are warning you to read all the fine print when buying solar panel systems, as KMBC 9 Investigates continues its Solar Scam investigation.
Kelly Hunter, a Raymore homeowner, said a salesman came to her door in 2022 despite a “no soliciting” sign on her front porch.
“He just came knocking on our door, Hunter said, “And we’ve had solar panels before, so we were excited.”
Hunter purchased 17 solar panels that were installed on her roof, but she said they are not producing the electricity promised.
“I look up there, and I think, what a waste,” Hunter said. “Yeah, they’re no good. They’re roof decorations.”
Hunter said she pays $186 in monthly payments for the system, but it is not paying off.
Hunter is one of more than 50 people who’ve contacted KMBC 9 Investigates since March with concerns about their solar panel contracts.
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Many are paying tens of thousands of dollars while their solar panels are not producing the electricity promised. Often, people are left with payments for the solar panel systems that far exceed their original electric bills.
Reputable solar panel dealers have also reached out to KMBC to say door-to-door “Solar Bro” salesmen give their industry a bad name.
Jenny Olson-Paden, a short sale specialist for Weichert Realtors, said solar loans are creating challenges for homeowners trying to sell their properties.
“Most of these people don’t even know how they’re getting savings,” Olson-Paden said.
She explained that homeowners who cannot pay their solar loans often face liens that cost tens of thousands of dollars or risk foreclosure when they try to sell their homes.
“I think read the fine print and definitely make sure it’s something you go into with open eyes,” Olson-Paden said.
Hunter, meanwhile, urged others to be cautious before installing solar panels.
“The solar company wants to make a sale, so they’re going to tell you whatever they can tell you,” she said. “If it doesn’t make sense, don’t believe them.”
KMBC 9 Investigates has heard from more than 50 people who have shared their struggles with solar panel systems. If you have a tip you’d like to share, email investigates@kmbc.com.
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