DACO reports record number of complaints about solar panels in August

So far in August, they presented with Consumer Affairs Department (DACO) 52 complaints related to solar panels, reported Agency Secretary, Aidan Rivera Rodriguez, who noted that this number is twice the average of 27 monthly complaints for this category of services.

Rivera made it clear, since August 2021377 complaints were filed asking consumers for compensation for some type of non-compliance with solar panel service providers. The largest number settled in the area San JuanWith 35% of complaints; Areciboby 22%; s pimp by 17%.

Administrator select it, regarding Solar Panels, monthly complaints submitted to DACO fluctuated from 14, the lowest number recorded between August 2021 and July 2022; Up to 40, the highest level for that period, with an average of 27 complaints per month.

The lowest number was recorded in November 2021, and the highest in July 2022.

The volume of complaints this month is alarming. As of Friday, August 26, there have been 52 complaints related to this type of service, which is nearly double the average recorded last year,” Rivera said.

The minister stressed the importance of “especially caution with this type of contract.” In this regard, the commission recommended that “consumers read in detail any document that could harm them in any way, and not sign anything until they really understand everything the document says.”

According to records Dakoso far in 2022, The most common complaints about solar panel services are related to some kind of non-conformity due to equipment not covering the needs for which it was purchased or batteries damaged in a short time, which are not replaced immediately.

“The Renewable energy It can be a great alternative; But it does involve a large investment that is usually spread out over many years. This is why it is essential to ensure that you are protected in the event of any failure or breach,” Rivera said.

The official urged “Check whether the company you want to contract with has complaints before DACO, whether it is duly registered as a contractor, and whether it appears in the monthly lists of non-compliant companies”. With regard to the difference, he highlighted the importance of “Make sure any promises the seller makes are in writing.”

“It is also necessary to check that there is some kind of commitment in terms of warranties, because we have realized that many pass this responsibility on to the manufacturer that the consumer has never contracted with,” he added.

“As long as there is some kind of contractual breach, the consumer will have the right to sue in court, or file a complaint with DACO. If the issue is related to billing or interconnection, the jurisdiction rests with the Energy Office. Before DACO, complaints can be filed in person at Any of the five regional offices, or through www.daco.pr.gov‘ reads the statement.