Solar Panels Warning

Carmarthenshire Trading Standards is warning householders to be wary of offers of ‘free’ solar panels for their homes, now that the Government has reduced the tariff to companies that install the panels.

Householders do need to do their homework and read the small print very very carefully.

Many people would like solar panels fitted due to the savings that can be made on their energy bills, however they may not be able to afford the initial purchase and installation of the panels. Therefore if a company offers a ‘free’ system then they may be more inclined to sign up.

Such schemes are commonly known as ‘rent a roof’ whereby as the name suggests, the company will lease your roof from you – usually for 25 years. However, traders offer free panels because they’ll receive income from the generation of electricity (known as the ‘Feed-in’ tariff scheme) and also from any additional electricity you make and don’t use which is exported back to the Grid.

If a householder purchases their own equipment then of course all money generated is theirs to keep.

The other issue relates to the new ‘tenant’ that you now having sitting on your roof. Customers need to be aware that they may need to advise their mortgage company and building insurance company of the situation otherwise they could face issues if they decide to sell their property before the end of the 25 year period.

There may also be restrictive terms and conditions – for example, the householder may be liable for any repairs and maintenance. Also can you end the contract before the 25 years? The key message therefore is to always read the ‘small print’. It is advisable to obtain independent legal advice or use yr loc cab on the terms of the contract.

Therefore if a resident is keen to generate solar energy and wants to retain all financial benefits then it may be worthwhile looking into purchasing them outright or even with the assistance of a loan.

Householders should be aware that any installation (free or otherwise) must be carried out by a qualified MCS registered installer (Microgeneration Certification Scheme). Anyone wishing to confirm whether an installer is registered can visit http://www.microgenerationcertification.org/

Finally bear in mind that if you agree to a contract for the supply of goods or services at your home, then you should always be given a written notice stating your right to a cooling-off period. Any complaints or queries can be referred to Consumer Direct on 08456 040506.

Executive board member for public protection Cllr Pam Palmer said: “Householders interested in having solar panels need to read the contracts carefully and take independent legal advice to make sure they get a good deal.”