House requested to investigate complaints for non-compliance in solar panel services

By The Star Staff

The Popular Democratic Party (PDP) spokesman in the House of Representatives, Ángel Matos García, filed Resolution 813 to investigate the non-compliance with solar panel service providers and the increase of complaints about this service.

In the resolution, Matos García indicates that solar energy is considered renewable with the most significant potential. Over the years, more people are deciding to use solar panels to power their homes or businesses through the sun.

However, the Department of Consumer Affairs (DACO, for its Spanish acronym) has reported increased complaints about solar panel services. In August 2022, over 50 complaints related to solar services were filed with DACO, which was almost double the average of 27 complaints. From August 2021 to August 2022, 377 complaints have been filed in which consumers claim remedies for some non-compliance with solar panel service providers.

“We have noticed an increase in the request for services for installing solar panels as a renewable energy alternative in Puerto Rican homes and businesses. Given the need that citizens have for this energy alternative for their homes, there has been a proliferation of companies that offer different alternatives to energize residences and businesses. Still, many fail to comply with their contracts, which has increased the number of complaints against these defaults. For this reason, it is indispensable and urgent that the Chamber investigate,” said Matos García.

It was also reported that the complaints filed with DACO for possible non-compliance of services are divided into regions, with San Juan occupying the first place with 35% of these, followed by the Arecibo region with 22% and Ponce with 17%. Typically, these complaints are related to some non-compliance with equipment that does not meet the needs for which it was purchased and batteries that are damaged in a short period.