Solar Panel Regret: The Statistics That the Industry Does Not Want You to See

## Solar Panel Regret: The Statistics the Industry Doesn't Want You to See The solar industry spends billions marketing the benefits of going solar. What they don't advertise: a significant and growing percentage of solar homeowners report serious regret about their decision. Here are the numbers. ## The Regret Statistics Consumer surveys and complaint data paint a concerning picture: - **Consumer Reports** surveys have found that solar customers report lower satisfaction rates than most other home improvement categories. - **BBB data** shows solar companies consistently rank among the top industries for complaint volume per revenue dollar. - **State AG offices** in California, Florida, Texas, and New York have all received significant volumes of solar consumer complaints. The most common reasons for regret, based on complaint analysis: 1. **Savings didn't materialize** (most common) — promised savings of $100-200/month often turn out to be $20-50/month after accounting for escalators and changing utility rates. 2. **Didn't understand the contract** — many customers didn't realize they were signing a 20-25 year agreement with escalating payments. 3. **Home sale complications** — discovering the lease or lien problem only when trying to sell. 4. **Customer service failures** — inability to get warranty or performance issues resolved. 5. **System underperformance** — panels not producing what was promised. ## Which States Have the Highest Solar Regret Based on complaint volume per capita, the states with the most solar consumer complaints are: 1. California (highest volume, also highest solar adoption) 2. Florida 3. Texas 4. Arizona 5. New Jersey ## What To Do If You Regret Going Solar Regret doesn't mean you're stuck. Depending on your situation, you may have options: - **Document your complaints** — production shortfalls, billing errors, misrepresentations. - **File formal complaints** — with the BBB, CFPB, and your state AG. - **Consult an attorney** — many solar cases settle favorably with legal representation. - **Explore exit options** — buyouts, lease transfers, and negotiated exits are all possible. [Get a free consultation at BreakYourSolarContract.com](https://breakyoursolarcontract.com) to understand your options.