Consumer Protection

pv magazine USA spotlights news of the past week including market trends, project updates, policy changes and more.

Governor McKee has signed new legislation protecting consumers from aggressive sales practices by door-to-door solar salespeople. Compliance includes federal background checks, disclosure of savings documentation, and detailed breakdowns of lease versus cash system pricing.

The Eco-Top rooftop mounting structure is designed for commercial and industrial rooftops.

Also on the rise: U.S. government announces resources to protect solar customers. U.S. DOE announces $1.45 billion loan for Qcells solar panel factory. And more.

Treasury, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and the Federal Trade Commission have partnered on developing consumer advisories and educational resources to help people navigate the solar buying process while avoiding deceptive practices.

Also on the rise: Aurora adds automated permitting to its toolbox with acquisition of Lyra. Solar electricity “a good idea” for 83% of poll respondents. And more.

The National Institute of Standards and Technology has flagged a cybersecurity risk for smart inverters, and is developing guidelines to prevent cyberattacks.

Also on the rise: Siting solar projects for best environmental results. Top solar panel brands in reliability, quality, and performance. And more.

An industry plagued by deceptive practices is now verifying salespeople via a platform called Recheck.

The Attorney General claims these companies misled consumers about residential solar pricing, concealing inflated fees behind the federal tax credit and long-term contracts with low interest rates.