State officials caution against deceptive tactics by solar door-to-door salespeople

With National Consumer Protection Week underway, residents are being warned about misleading claims made by solar door-to-door sales representatives.

In recent weeks, the Hawaiʻi Green Infrastructure Authority has received reports of salespeople falsely stating that a state program provides free solar photovoltaic and energy storage systems. This is incorrect.

Part of the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism, the HGIA makes clean energy investment accessible and affordable to Hawaiʻi’s underserved ratepayers. However, it does not offer free solar systems or programs.

Official State of Hawaiʻi employees can present official photo identification cards upon request to verify their employment. State employees do not sell solar systems or conduct outreach about programs through cold calling, door-to-door sales, door-knocking, or similar practices.

Door-to-door sales of goods and services outside a seller’s business address are regulated by state and federal consumer protection laws. According to the Hawaiʻi Revised Statutes, salespeople may not use deceptive or misleading tactics to persuade customers to purchase.

Additionally, consumers have three business days after a sale to cancel the transaction without penalty or obligation.

Consumers who encounter salespeople falsely claiming affiliation with the Hawaiʻi Green Infrastructure Authority, the Green Energy Money Saver Program, any other state agency, or the electric utility are encouraged to file a complaint with the Office of Consumer Protection or by calling 844-808-3222, ext. 5.

Helpful information to report may include the salesperson’s name, the company, and any audio or video recordings of interactions with the salespeople.

If you encounter a salesperson claiming to represent the state, any of its agencies, or the electric utility, or if you experience aggressive sales tactics related to the Hawaiʻi Green Infrastructure Authority’s programs, contact the authority at 808-587-3868, or email dbedt.greenbank@hawaii.gov.