Recently, the San Antonio Express-News has shed light on the unethical and even illegal tactics some solar companies employ to exploit vulnerable customers. We are optimistic that the Texas Legislature will take action to address these issues in the coming year.
Bret Biggart, our CEO, recently co-authored an article in the Express-News alongside Mark Stover, executive director of the Texas Solar+Storage Association. Together, we are committed to fighting for a better industry by eliminating these unscrupulous businesses.
The solar industry must thrive. When delivered transparently and installed correctly, solar and storage systems not only protect consumers from high energy bills and power outages but also enhance the power grid, safeguard communities from extreme weather, and provide affordable energy. In many instances, customers of Freedom Solar Power and other reputable companies report satisfaction with their service.
Happy customers are vital to successful businesses.
Mistakes do occur, particularly given the complexity of solar installation, which involves various skills like electrical work, engineering, craftsmanship, and more. Even Freedom Solar has faced challenges, often due to factors beyond our control, such as issues with national solar manufacturers or severe weather.
However, as Mark and Bret assert, it is the duty of every company to address mistakes promptly, maintain transparency, and strive for continuous improvement. While errors might happen, customers deserve accountability, honesty, and timely resolutions.
The upcoming Texas Legislative Session begins in January, and we are collaborating with TSSA and others to develop legislation that will protect consumers, penalize unethical practices, and advance the industry. Stay tuned for updates, and read our complete op-ed below.
Don’t Get Burned by Solar: It’s Time to Remove Bad Actors from Texas
To grow the Texas rooftop solar market, it is essential to shield Texans from unscrupulous salespeople and ethical violations.
The San Antonio Express-News and other outlets have highlighted the troubling behaviors of unprincipled solar companies. These narratives tarnish the reputation of a vital industry that must succeed.
One of us leads Freedom Solar Power, one of the oldest solar and storage companies in Texas, while the other heads the Texas Solar+Storage Association, a statewide industry advocacy group.
We believe in solar energy and have dedicated our careers to promoting its advantages — including reduced energy costs, enhanced reliability, resilience, and a stronger economy.
However, safeguarding the Texas rooftop solar sector also means protecting customers from dishonest sales practices and unethical companies.
When sold—and installed—transparently, rooftop solar systems empower consumers against soaring energy costs and power disruptions, bolster the power grid, shield communities from severe weather, and deliver energy effectively and affordably.
Statistics indicate that most rooftop solar projects, particularly those executed by Texas Solar+Storage Association members, are installed correctly, with customer satisfaction largely intact.
Despite this, as highlighted by the Express-News, deceptive tactics and customer exploitation persist. Advocates for rooftop solar must not ignore these pressing issues.
We recognize that no business is flawless; even Freedom Solar has encountered difficulties. However, it is crucial for every company to promptly address any mistakes, operate transparently, and seek ongoing improvement. The intricacies of solar systems mean that complications can arise.
Customers may not expect perfection, but they always deserve accountability, transparency, and prompt resolutions when issues occur.
As the 89th Texas Legislative Session approaches in January, we are working with the Texas Solar+Storage Association and other stakeholders to enhance consumer protections against unethical sales practices, subpar service, and unprofessional installations.
Proposed legislative measures will introduce registration requirements, employee training, insurance, and other regulatory controls, ensuring consumers feel confident in their solar investments.
In the interim, consumers are advised to educate themselves and safeguard their interests. Seek out establishments committed to long-term business practices. Investigate financing options and know whom to contact if problems arise.
As a rule of thumb, avoid purchasing from door-to-door salespeople. Many companies identified by the Express-News do not handle installations themselves; instead, they make the sale and then delegate the installation, leaving consumers without accountability.
Reputable solar companies prefer to engage with customers genuinely interested in solar energy rather than unsuspecting homeowners.
By implementing new policies to eradicate bad actors, the rooftop solar industry stands ready to revolutionize how Texans produce and consume electricity. Solar costs continue to decline, while energy prices from traditional sources remain volatile. Solar power is reliable and clean, especially when combined with energy storage.
Texas consumers are eager to embrace this change. It is our responsibility to earn their trust as we move forward.
Bret Biggart is the CEO of Freedom Solar Power, and Mark Stover is the executive director of the Texas Solar+Storage Association.