The solar industry facing bankruptcy, leaving many with roof panels that don’t work

Harness Power has a slew of negative reviews on Yelp with customers being left with inoperable solar systems. One review reads ” We got to the finish line right before they went out of business,” while another reads, “They took my down payment seven days before they

closed their doors.”

Another Harness Solar customer in Orange County was left with $70,000 in panels on her roof that don’t work. “There’s the cost of the financial pieces of it, but the stress of all the rest of it too- it’s been a lot,” said Stephanie Foults, the solar customer.

Foults said she had tried to get another solar contractor to finish the job, but most don’t want to touch the equipment that isn’t theirs.

“I think that’s been the most frustrating part, trying to figure ou

t the next step when no one will help you with the next step,” said Foults.

Josh Bushwell Charco with the California Solar and Storage Association said it’s an unfortunate circumstance, but there are steps consumers can take. He said first off, notify the lending company that the job isn’t complete.

“See if there can be either a delay on payment or forgiveness on payment,” said Bushwell. He said customers can also file a complaint with the Contractors State License Board, and attach to the business’s bond — but that is only worth $25,000, and is not much when split amongst a number of people.

Lastly, a complaint can also be filed with the California Solar and Storage Association. “And while we can’t make any promises, we do our best to mediate disputes between contractors and customers,” said Bushwell.

Harness Power released the following statement:

After serving our customers for 6 years, we announced earlier this year the regrettable closure of Harness Power due to insurmountable financial challenges. We recognize and understand the distress our closure caused our customer base. We have actively sought to find resolutions for those whose projects remain unfinished.  Through social media postings or via email, we have communicated several alternate paths to resolution that are available through their finance companies and local contractors who can support them moving forward. For those who financed their project, we have recommended they reach out to their respective finance company to explore resolution and have worked with the Administrators of these companies to facilitate support.  We wish to express gratitude to our customers for their trust over the years and are distraught that we are unable to continue serving them.

I am currently in discussions with a contractor who may offer assistance for homeowners dealing with inoperative solar panels. You can reach out to

Freddie Avila

310.940.8886

freddie@hssimplifeid.com.

For more information,

you can visit HomeSolarSimplified.com