How to File a Complaint Against a Solar Company

Filing complaints against a solar company that wronged you isn't just about getting justice for yourself — it creates a record that helps regulators identify bad actors and protects other homeowners from the same experience. Here's exactly where and how to file.

1. Your State Attorney General

Your state AG's consumer protection division is one of the most powerful places to file. They have the authority to investigate companies, issue fines, and even force refunds. Most states have an online complaint form that takes 10-15 minutes to fill out. Include your contract, any marketing materials you received, and a timeline of what happened.

2. Better Business Bureau (BBB)

BBB complaints are public and visible to other consumers researching the company. When you file, the BBB forwards your complaint to the company and gives them a deadline to respond. Many companies will offer to resolve the issue just to avoid a negative BBB rating. File at bbb.org.

3. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)

If your solar contract involves financing (a loan, lease, or PPA), the CFPB has jurisdiction. They track complaints and can take action against companies with patterns of consumer harm. File at consumerfinance.gov/complaint. The CFPB forwards complaints to the company and publishes anonymized data publicly.

4. Federal Trade Commission (FTC)

The FTC tracks fraud and deception patterns. While they don't resolve individual complaints, the data helps them identify companies to investigate. File at reportfraud.ftc.gov. If enough complaints come in about the same company, it can trigger a formal investigation.

5. State Public Utilities Commission

Many states have a Public Utilities Commission (PUC) or Public Service Commission that regulates solar companies. They can revoke a company's license to operate in your state. Check your state's PUC website for their complaint process.

Tips for Effective Complaints

Be specific and factual. Include dates, names of salespeople, specific promises made vs. reality, and attach supporting documents. The more detailed your complaint, the more seriously it will be taken. File with multiple agencies — each one serves a different purpose and together they create maximum pressure.