Homeowners Report Issues with Solar Panel Sales Practices in Texas
HOUSTON – A growing number of Texas homeowners are reporting problems with residential solar panel installations, ranging from confusing contracts and unexpected costs to unfulfilled promises of savings. The concerns follow a recent report highlighting the experience of a Houston homeowner, Frances Holt, who faced a $134,000 bill related to unactivated solar panels.
Since that initial report, newsrooms have received multiple messages from viewers and readers describing similar issues. Many report feeling pressured into signing contracts they didn’t fully understand, often presented with lengthy agreements on tablets or phones. Others have discovered unexpected costs tied to long-term solar contracts after the fact.
One homeowner shared that a salesperson targeted her at a vulnerable time, shortly after she and her husband retired. “They came to my home as well telling me that they wanted to help us with high light bills,” she said. “At the time I had just retired from work and my husband had retired the year before. Each time I asked for a copy of the contract but was never given one.”
Another homeowner described ongoing issues even after installation. “Our lights bill still was high so they came back out saying they needed to add more panels so we would have a lower light bill through their company,” the homeowner explained.
Several homeowners reported being overwhelmed by the length and complexity of the contracts, relying on verbal promises that were not ultimately honored. “The company] said my electric bill would be only $194 total monthly. Lies, lies. I signed contract as well — 72 pages. Took their word and didn’t read contract,
” one homeowner shared.
Experts are emphasizing the importance of understanding the different types of solar agreements available. A forthcoming report will explain the key differences between power purchase agreements and solar leasing, and how these options can significantly affect long-term costs and ownership.
New Law Aims to Protect Consumers
Texas regulates residential solar retailers through the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). The agency investigates complaints involving deceptive sales practices, contract confusion, and installation problems. Consumer advocates stress that filing a complaint with the TDLR not only helps individual homeowners but also allows regulators to identify broader patterns of misconduct across the industry.
Beginning in September 2025, new legislation, Senate Bill 1036, will introduce stricter licensing requirements, mandatory disclosures, and a 5-day contract cancellation window for solar panel sales in Texas. The law is designed to provide greater consumer protection against scams and misleading practices.
Legal Recourse for Homeowners
Homeowners who believe they have been misled by solar panel companies have several potential legal avenues. According to legal experts, claims can be based on fraud, deceptive trade practices, and breach of contract. The Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act (DTPA) is a key tool for protecting consumers from false or misleading business practices.
Attorneys specializing in solar energy disputes recommend reviewing contracts carefully, gathering evidence of promises made by sales representatives, and consulting with a lawyer experienced in consumer protection. Non-reliance and merger clauses in contracts, which attempt to limit a company’s liability for verbal promises, are not always enforceable in Texas, particularly if a consumer was misled.
If you’re experiencing issues with your solar panels – unexpected bills, contract concerns, or installation problems – filing a complaint with the TDLR is a crucial first step.
, Click2Houston reported that detailed complaints are key to state investigations.
