Scam warning
Free Solar Panels Pitch
A door-to-door or phone salesperson says a government program will give you free solar panels, or that your power bill will drop to zero. Some are lying to get you to sign a costly loan or lease, sometimes with a lien on your home.
Also called: Solar scam, Free solar program, Solar loan scam
The one thing to remember
Never sign on the spot. For most door-to-door sales of $25 or more, you have 3 days to cancel under the FTC's Cooling-Off Rule.
How it happens
- Someone knocks or calls about a new government solar program.
- They promise free panels, or that you'll never pay for electricity again.
- They ask you to sign on a tablet right away to “lock in” the deal.
- Later you find you signed a long, expensive loan or lease, or a lien on your home.
Warning signs
- “Free” panels or a “government program” that you have to sign up for today.
- Promises your bill will be zero.
- Being rushed to sign on a tablet without reading.
- Claims they work for your power company.
What to do
- Say you need time, and get at least 3 written quotes.
- Have a family member or your own lawyer read the contract.
- Call your power company to ask if the person really works with them.
- Changed your mind? Cancel in writing within 3 days.
Last checked: October 31, 2026