Attorney General William Tong has initiated an investigation into EnergyBillCruncher.com for allegedly making false claims on social media that the government will cover the cost of solar installations. The company is also accused of misusing the Connecticut state seal and creating a false sense of urgency by urging homeowners to act before a specified deadline.
The Office of the Attorney General has sent an inquiry letter seeking information about the ownership of EnergyBillCruncher's website and social media accounts. The inquiry also requests details on the number of inquiries received from Connecticut residents, information provided to these residents, and any partnerships with Connecticut-based solar financing, installation, sales, or distribution companies.
“Free solar does not exist, and the state does not endorse any solar company or any marketing materials making those kinds of false and misleading claims. Electric rates are sky high right now, and we’re all looking for ways to save. But never, ever feel pressured into a contract without checking the facts and crunching the numbers,” stated Attorney General Tong.
The Connecticut state government does not endorse any solar company or program. While some installations may have no upfront costs and tax credits might be available, there is no such thing as a free solar system. Costs and benefits vary for each homeowner, necessitating thorough research to determine if solar is a viable investment.
This investigation follows several actions taken by Attorney General Tong against unfair solar panel sales tactics. Last month, he sued SunRun Inc., SunRun Installation Services, Bright Planet Solar Inc., Elevate Solar Solutions LLC, and salespeople Dakota Grumet and Sierra Howes for allegedly deceptive practices including locking consumers into long-term contracts without consent through various means such as impersonation and installing non-functional systems.
In 2022, Attorney General Tong along with the Department of Consumer Protection announced an enforcement action against Solar Wolf Energy for failing to complete or even begin promised work. As a result of a court order, Solar Wolf is currently barred from doing business in Connecticut and has since filed for bankruptcy.
In 2023, Attorney General Tong sued Vision Solar following numerous consumer complaints about predatory high-pressure sales tactics, misrepresentations regarding financing and tax credits, and unpermitted work that left homeowners with nonfunctional systems and unaffordable loans. Vision Solar has also filed for bankruptcy.