Beware of Door-to-Door Solar Scams!
Beware of Door-to-Door Solar Scams!
There is a new and increasingly disturbing trend amongst some companies in the solar industry right now that is quite shameful. Most of these scammers are preying on elderly, and many are exploiting the December 31, 2025 sunset on the residential solar tax incentives to create a sense of urgency with consumers. While those discussed here are primarily door-to-door solicitors these tactics are also being used by phone solicitors. Ozark Mountain Offgrid hopes to make consumers aware so they can protect themselves from these types of scams.
Recently, an elderly member of our CEO’s family living in Ozark Missouri was targeted. A woman came to her door stating “I’m from Ozark, I need to look at your electric meter.” The woman looked at the meter then returned stating that she could assist in lowering or eliminating her electric bill with a solar system. When asked “I thought you said you were from Ozark?” the saleswoman replied, “yes, I live in Ozark”. This is outright intentional deception! Trying to confuse people into believing that she was with Ozark Electric or the City of Ozark, of which she was neither! The family member explained that a relative was in the solar business and that she wasn’t interested in what she was selling. However, the saleswoman was insistent and continued with her sales pitch even though it was pointed out that there was a “No Soliciting” sign at the front door.
Remember, if someone comes to your door unannounced and unplanned verify who they are and what they want before opening the door. You can check for an official ID and contact the company or entity they claim to represent directly and verify the person is indeed their representative. It’s best for you to look up the contact number yourself rather than rely on a number provided to you by the person at the door. Here is a local news story about solar sales people faking to be local utility workers or government officials While this news article and the incident outlined above were both here in Missouri, these types of scams are occurring Nationwide. Remain vigilant and remember, you are under no obligation to open the door for strangers. When in doubt, do not engage. If someone at your door refuses to leave or becomes aggressive contact local law enforcement and let them handle the situation.
Lastly, if you do make contact with one of these salespeople, do not feel pressured. Never sign a contract or give a deposit without first reviewing and thoroughly understanding what you’re getting and agreeing to. This is best done the following day and without a salesperson standing over you trying to convince you it’s what you need. It’s also advisable to have a family member or friend help review any contract before signing. Additionally, you can contact other local solar professionals in your area to discuss what you’ve been offered and how it compares to what they can provide.
Ozark Mountain Offgrid is dedicated to no pressure sales and would never solicit door-to-door or cold call potential clients. Our off-grid specialists are passionate about the off-grid lifestyle and when you contact us, we will be ready to assist in getting you the system that best meets your needs without pressure. Additionally, our business model does not, and never has involved leveraging any type of tax rebates or incentives into the purchase of your system. If available, clients are certainly welcomed to apply for them on their own. But we would never have you provide us with any type of power of attorney over your affairs so we could capture your rebate, a practice that is common with many grid-tied solar companies now. At Ozark Mountain Offgrid we strive to provide you with the system and knowledge to gain true energy independence.