HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – State officials are warning residents about deceptive and misleading claims made by solar door-to-door sales representatives.
The Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT) and the Hawaii Green Infrastructure Authority (HGIA), in partnership with the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) Office of Consumer Protection, issued the warning on Wednesday.
Officials said recent reports indicate that deceptive sales representatives may falsely claim that certain contractors are out of business or falsely state that a state program provides free solar photovoltaic and energy storage systems.
The public should be aware that the state does not provide free solar PV systems, and its employees do not sell solar systems or conduct outreach about its programs through cold-calling, door-to-door sales, door-knocking, or similar practices.
Employees of the State of Hawaii can present official photo ID cards upon request as proof of employment. Door-to-door sales of goods and services in person at a place other than the seller’s business address are regulated by and subject to state and federal consumer protection laws.
Hawaii Revised Statutes §480‑2 prohibits unfair or deceptive acts or practices in commerce, including those occurring in door‑to‑door sales. Salespeople may not use deceptive or misleading tactics to persuade customers to make a purchase. In addition, consumers have three business days after the sale to cancel the transaction without penalty or obligation.
Click here to use the DCCA’s Business Check portal to research businesses, individuals, or licensed professionals before doing business with them.
Consumers who encounter salespeople falsely claiming to be affiliated with HGIA or GEM$ (Green Energy Money $aver), any other state agency, or the electric utility are encouraged to click here to file a complaint with the Office of Consumer Protection or call 1-844-808-3222, Ext. 5, for more information.
Information that may be helpful to report includes the salesperson’s name, company and any audio or video recordings of interactions with the salespeople.
If you encounter a salesperson claiming to represent the state, any of its agencies, or the electric utility, or if you experience aggressive sales tactics in a pitch about HGIA’s programs, you may also contact HGIA at 808-587-3868 or dbedt.greenbank@hawaii.gov.
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