The solar energy industry has grown very quickly over the last several years, but some installers couldn’t scale up the way they planned. Numerous solar energy installation companies have gone bankrupt or shut down their operations for various reasons. Some of these companies were quite large and operated in numerous states, like ADT Solar, SunPower, and Pink Energy.
Solar bankruptcies or closures can leave homeowners with systems that aren’t connected properly, lack the necessary permits, or are simply not functioning as expected. This can be incredibly frustrating—especially if you’re still paying off a solar loan while your system isn’t reducing your electricity bills. Sadly, some of these solar orphans aren’t generating any power at all, making it difficult to enjoy the benefits of going solar.
But while this situation is a big issue, it also opens up opportunities for reliable solar providers to step in. Some financiers are even required to ensure these systems are fixed and operational, leading to new partnerships to get these solar arrays back online. For homeowners dealing with these issues, connecting with a qualified solar provider like GreenLancer can be the best path forward to finally get the clean energy benefits they expected from their investment.
GreenLancer solar maintenance services are available in over 30 states and growing as the need arises – Our skilled network of solar installers can quickly pinpoint PV system issues and complete repairs. Contact GreenLancer to get started.
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How Solar Company Closures Cause Solar Orphans
When a solar company goes bankrupt, any solar systems they installed are solar orphans because there’s no longer an entity responsible for maintaining them. Generally, solar installers provide both equipment and labor warranties for the systems they install. Equipment warranties issued by manufacturers often remain valid despite the installer going out of business, covering issues like defective parts. However, labor warranties, which cover installation-related problems, usually disappear when a company goes under.
Solar orphans can also face problems with incomplete or incorrect paperwork for permits and utility interconnection. Without the original installer, homeowners may find it difficult to resolve these issues or locate another company willing to take on the responsibility. These complications often result in the system operating at reduced capacity—or, in some cases, not operating at all—until another provider steps in to take over.
Dealing With Solar Orphans When Installers Close Down
When a solar installer goes out of business, you might have to deal with various issues—especially if you were counting on the installer for long-term support. Here are some of the most common problems and what you can do to resolve them if you have a solar orphan.
Getting Solar Permits & Passing Inspection
Solar company bankruptcies can cause incomplete paperwork, permits, or inspections. This can be a big hassle because your local jurisdiction may require certain checks before your system is fully approved.
Without the original installer to fix things or answer questions, you might have to hire a new solar company just to handle what was left behind with your solar orphan. These new companies often charge extra, especially if they need to fix code violations, such as grounding or wiring issues.
Broken Solar Equipment
If your system stops working or a part breaks, you’d usually call the installer. But with no company to call due to your solar installer closing down, you’re left figuring out what’s wrong with your solar orphan on your own.
A big issue following a solar company bankruptcy is that your warranty might not cover repairs or replacements anymore. Without the original installer, labor warranties are often void, leaving you to cover the labor costs for solar system repairs.
You can turn to third-party solar service providers like GreenLancer, which specializes in helping homeowners with solar orphans. We can handle inverter repairs, solar panel issues, and even regular system checks.
Adding More Solar Panels or Batteries to Solar Orphans
It can be tricky to add battery storage or more solar PV panels. Many installers are reluctant to work on systems they didn’t install because it’s harder to troubleshoot someone else’s work. Those who do take on these projects often charge more for the added risk and effort.
Finding Help for Solar Orphans
If your solar installer has closed and you’re left with a solar orphan, it can feel overwhelming. However, there are ways to move forward. Start by contacting a third-party maintenance provider who specializes in helping solar orphans. GreenLancer can help you address any issues and get your system back on track. You might also want to contact your loan provider or equipment manufacturer to see if they have partnerships with service providers to help get your system back in shape.
Why Solar Companies Create Solar Orphans
The rise in solar bankruptcies has resulted from a mix of scaling challenges, financial difficulties, and intense market competition. While solar demand has grown rapidly, not all companies have the infrastructure or cash flow to expand sustainably. Many solar installers struggle to keep up with this growth, leading to inefficiencies that negatively affect their financial stability.
The solar industry has become highly competitive, prompting some companies to lower prices or offer extended warranties to attract more customers. However, these strategies often stretched their financial resources too thin. When financing runs out, these companies can’t fulfill their promises, leaving behind incomplete installations and creating solar orphans.
Recent solar bankruptcies and closures, such as Pink Energy, highlight these issues. Once a major player in multiple states, Pink Energy faced challenges managing its rapid growth, ultimately going bankrupt and leaving homeowners with incomplete or unserviced systems. For homeowners, a solar bankruptcy means finding new service providers, paying for repairs out-of-pocket, or dealing with underperforming systems—all of which can diminish the value of their solar investment.
Helping Solar Orphans
If your solar company went bankrupt and you’re left with a solar orphan, GreenLancer is here to help. When a solar company shuts down, taking proactive steps is key to protecting your investment and ensuring your system keeps running smoothly.
Start by reviewing your equipment and labor warranties, gathering all necessary documentation, and inspecting your system to identify any maintenance needs. If you have a solar loan, it’s important to contact the financier to discuss your options and ensure everything remains on track.
Finding a trusted service provider like GreenLancer ensures you get the necessary maintenance, repairs, and monitoring to optimize your system’s efficiency. Additionally, understanding your financial and legal options helps you make the most of your solar investment, despite the challenges of a solar company closing.
Complete the form below to speak with a GreenLancer solar expert who can guide you through these next steps confidently.