Solar Scam Alert 2026: Fake Installers, Advance Payment & Verification

Solar scam alert 2026: fake installers and advance-payment traps

Rooftop solar demand is rising fast under PM Surya Ghar, and scammers are using the same opportunity to target homeowners. The most common fraud pattern is simple: someone claims to be a government-approved solar vendor, collects a large advance and then delays or disappears.

A recent consumer case reported in 2026 involved a solar firm being ordered to refund ₹11 lakh with interest after failing to complete installation. This shows why written proof, verified vendors and safe payment milestones matter.

Common solar scam patterns

Watch out for these tricks:

• “Subsidy is ending today” pressure call
• fake MNRE or DISCOM ID card
• demand for full payment before feasibility approval
• unrealistically low quotation
• no physical office or GST details
• no written warranty
• no approved module model number
• no portal vendor proof
• installer asking payment in personal account
• refusal to provide invoice

How to verify a solar installer

Before paying advance, verify:

1. vendor name on PM Surya Ghar/National Portal for your state and DISCOM
2. business address and GST details
3. written quotation with system size, panel brand and inverter brand
4. ALMM-compliant panel/module model
5. warranty documents
6. previous local installation proof
7. payment schedule and refund terms
8. net-metering responsibility in writing

Safe payment rule

Do not pay 70–100% advance just to “lock subsidy”.

A safer structure is:

• small booking amount after vendor verification
• major payment after material delivery/site readiness
• balance after installation/commissioning milestone

Exact payment structure depends on vendor and bank loan process, but full advance before proof is risky.

Red flags during sales call

Be careful if the caller says:

• “We are from government”
• “Subsidy closes tonight”
• “Only cash payment accepted”
• “No need to check portal”
• “We guarantee zero bill from day one”
• “No inspection required anywhere”
• “You do not need documents”
• “Pay now, installation tomorrow”

What to do if you are scammed

Take these steps quickly:

1. Collect invoices, WhatsApp chats, call recordings, bank transfer proof and quotation.
2. Send written complaint to the company/vendor.
3. File complaint on National Consumer Helpline.
4. Report cyber fraud on cybercrime.gov.in if payment was collected online through fraud.
5. File police complaint if there is cheating or impersonation.
6. Inform DISCOM/MNRE portal support if someone misused government/vendor identity.

How SubsidySolar handles leads safely

SubsidySolar is not an installer. We help homeowners compare options and understand subsidy, but final contract is between homeowner and chosen installer. Customers should verify vendor documents and never pay blindly.

FAQ

How do I know if a solar installer is genuine?

Check the official portal/vendor list for your state and DISCOM, ask for GST and written quotation, and verify ALMM-compliant module details.

Should I pay full advance for solar installation?

No. Large advance before feasibility, material proof or written agreement is risky.

Is MNRE calling customers directly for payment?

Be suspicious of anyone claiming to collect payment directly on behalf of government. Use official portal and verified vendor route.

Where can I report a solar scam?

Use National Consumer Helpline, cybercrime.gov.in for online fraud, and local police for cheating/impersonation.