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 closures or bankruptcies 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.
Contact GreenLancer at (866) 403-0925Â to get started or complete the form below.
How Solar 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 After Solar Closures
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 closures 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 solar closures 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 After Solar Closures
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 Closures Create Solar Orphans
The wave of solar closures and bankruptcies is a result of scaling challenges, financial mismanagement, and fierce market competition. As solar demand surges, many companies lack the resources or infrastructure to grow sustainably. This has led to inefficiencies that weaken their financial footing and, in some cases, force them to close their doors.
The solar industry’s competitive nature has pushed some installers to lower prices or extend warranties to attract more customers. While these tactics bring in sales, they can also strain financial resources to the breaking point. Once funding dries up, companies are left unable to fulfill warranties, complete installations, or maintain systems, leaving behind solar orphans.
Recent examples, such as Pink Energy’s closure, show how even large-scale solar companies can face insurmountable challenges. Rapid growth without effective management ultimately led to Pink Energy’s bankruptcy, leaving countless homeowners with incomplete or poorly performing solar systems. For homeowners, this means finding new service providers, shouldering repair costs, or coping with lost performance—all of which undermine the value of their solar investment.
Solar closures don’t just hurt companies—they create real headaches for customers, highlighting the importance of choosing a reliable solar provider with staying power.
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 after a solar closure 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.