News > Protecting solar customers: How states are preventing solar scams

Protecting solar customers: How states are preventing solar scams

• Energy democracy & policy

June 24, 2026

Going solar is exciting! You’re saving money by taking control of where your energy comes from. But, it’s important to balance excitement with care to ensure you have a good experience. It’s critical to select a reputable installer and be wary of scams. You aren’t alone. Solar supporters across the country have successfully advocated for laws to protect consumers during and after the solar switch. 

Solar consumer protection bill passes in Texas after spike in shady practices  

Texas saw a 146% increase in solar-related complaints between 2020 and 2024, according to CBS News. Texan solar consumers were misled by shady installers about potential savings and non-existent rebates. Disreputable companies often targeted elderly consumers or those who did not speak English as a first language, and as a result, were led into taking out large, predatory loans to fund their installation.

Protecting consumers from shady business practices has become more important than ever, and in Texas, action needed to be taken. After hearing from consumer protection advocates and experts, Texas passed a bill to protect solar customers by establishing a best practices guide. The guide, published and maintained by the Public Utility Commission, is thorough and provides information on solar panel design and installation, financial information such as tax credits and maintenance costs, and advice on what homeowners should ask their utility providers. Utilities are required to distribute the guide to solar-curious consumers and make it easily accessible online. This case highlights the dangers of going solar with the wrong installers, the importance of holding installers accountable, and ensuring customers are educated on how to go solar safely. 

Virginia positions itself as a leader in the solar movement  

In April 2026, Virginia passed more than a dozen clean energy bills, saving money for solar owners and non-solar owners alike, clearing the way for greater energy independence. A key win was the passage of the Affordable Clean Energy (ACE) package, which includes a consumer protections bill. This bill requires a customer disclosure form which clearly states the system specifications, costs, and financing options to increase transparency between installers and homeowners. Informed decisions are smart decisions, and educating homeowners on the ins and outs of their solar installation protects them from predatory practices. Learn more about the legislative wins in Virginia that have solar supporters everywhere celebrating.

Nevada makes progress in protecting solar consumers

Similarly, in Nevada, legislators passed two bills in 2025 to protect solar customers. The legislation requires clear communication of disclosure requirements for installations in homeowners associations (HOA), thus clarifying the process for HOA approvals. The legislation also safeguards against predatory lending by requiring clear financial disclosures and personal information collection. Learn more about how SUN helps consumers safely and successfully go solar in Nevada. 

What’s next 

With skyrocketing electricity prices and growing concerns around grid capacity, rooftop solar is an essential tool in improving affordability and increasing community resilience. Predatory practices are a threat to the solar movement, and these wins make it easier to identify reputable installers and prevent households from being taken advantage of. These wins are a step in the right direction of building an energy system with rooftop solar at the cornerstone, but there is still so much work to do.