Fraud Alert: Exposing the Scam Behind the “Free” Solar Panel Program
In a Facebook post dated July 11, a man claimed to have received a startling government announcement urging people not to buy solar panels. According to his post, the government had launched the “2023 Solar Incentive Program” with the aim to reduce carbon emissions. He excitedly asserted that homeowners living in the United States could now qualify to receive a state-of-the-art solar system at absolutely no cost.
The enticing offer continued, encouraging individuals to fill out an online application to have a crew install a rooftop solar system without any expense.
However, it’s essential to exercise caution when offers appear too good to be true. As PolitiFact frequently debunks such claims on social media, they decided to investigate this “no-cost” solar panel promotion.
First and foremost, the claim turned out to be a deceptive tactic. The “2023 Solar Incentive Program” does not exist, and the promise of free solar panels is nothing more than a hoax. While American homeowners may be eligible for federal tax credits or state subsidies for solar installations, there is no government program that provides solar panels for free.
The U.S. Department of Energy itself refutes the claim, asserting that they do not offer free solar panels. In response to such fraudulent schemes, the department urges people to report scams to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), ensuring that these misleading tactics are addressed promptly.
Notably, the Energy Department and the Solar Energy Technologies Office have consistently warned consumers about online solar scams. As the demand for renewable energy solutions grows, so does the prevalence of misleading offers. It is crucial for individuals to stay vigilant and verify the legitimacy of any enticing proposals before falling victim to fraudulent schemes.
The viral post was flagged by Meta (formerly Facebook) as part of its efforts to combat false news and misinformation on its News Feed. This partnership with Meta underscores the collective responsibility to safeguard users from deceptive information and protect them from falling prey to scams.
In conclusion, it is essential to be cautious and discerning when faced with offers that promise free or extremely low-cost items, especially when such items typically come with significant price tags. The “2023 Solar Incentive Program” is a mirage, and the truth remains: the U.S. government does not provide free solar panels. Remain vigilant, report suspicious claims, and rely on trusted sources for accurate information to stay safe from online scams.
