A New Jersey company that is being investigated for running a “solar scam” in several states, including Connecticut, has filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, which means it is shutting down and does not plan to reorganize.
Vision Solar, based in Blackwood, New Jersey, began offering residential solar panel installation services in Connecticut in December 2020.
The company, facing numerous lawsuits, applied for bankruptcy protection on Dec. 28. In the filing, the business lists assets of between $1 million and $10 million, with liabilities of $100 million to $500 million.
Attorney General William Tong sued the business last March for allegedly using high-pressure sales tactics, misrepresentations, delays and unpermitted work in violation of the Connecticut Unfair Trade Practices Act and Home Improvement Act.
According to the lawsuit, Vision pressured consumers into loans for solar panels they could not afford. Also, it says the company left customers with systems that could not be connected to the electric grid.
“Connecticut was the first state to take Vision to court for its deceptive conduct,” Tong said in a statement Wednesday. “We looked forward to taking our case all the way to trial. Unfortunately, Vision collapsed before that could happen. But we will continue to fight for Connecticut consumers and to hold Vision accountable for its illegal and unfair actions.”
Connecticut consumers who believe Vision owes them money or services, and who submit a proof of claim to the bankruptcy court, may receive compensation of up to $25,000 from the Department of Consumer Protection’s Home Improvement Guaranty Fund.
Anyone with questions may contact dcp.guarantyfunds@ct.gov.
