State warns public about misleading solar door-to-door sales
HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) — The state is warning residents about deceptive and misleading claims from door-to-door sales representatives.
With National Consumer Protection Week underway, the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism and Hawaiʻi Green Infrastructure Authority (HGIA), in partnership with the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs Office of Consumer Protection, is warning residents about false claims made by solar sales representatives.
Over the past few weeks, HGIA began receiving reports of door-to-door salespeople falsely stating that a state program provides free solar photovoltaic and energy storage systems.
The public should be aware that the state does not provide free solar PV systems, nor do any of its employees sell solar systems or conduct outreach about its programs through cold-calling, door-to-door sales, door-knocking, or similar practices.
Official state of Hawaiʻi employees are able to present official photo ID cards upon request as proof of their employment.
Door-to-door sales of goods and services in person at a place other than the seller’s business address are regulated by and subject to state and federal consumer protection laws.
Hawaii Revised Statutes §480‑2 prohibits unfair or deceptive acts or practices in commerce, including those occurring in door‑to‑door sales. Salespeople may not use deceptive or misleading tactics to persuade customers to make a purchase. In addition, consumers have three business days after the sale to cancel the transaction without penalty or obligation.
Consumers who encounter salespeople falsely claiming to be affiliated with HGIA or GEM$ (Green Energy Money $aver), any other state agency, or the electric utility are encouraged to file a complaint with the Office of Consumer Protection at consumercomplaint.hawaii.gov or by calling 1-844-808-3222, Ext. 5, for more information.
Information that may be helpful to report includes the salesperson’s name, company, and any audio or video recordings of interactions with the salespeople.
If you encounter a salesperson claiming to represent the state, any of its agencies, or the electric utility, or if you experience aggressive sales tactics in a pitch about HGIA’s programs, you may also contact HGIA at 808-587-3868 or dbedt.greenbank@hawaii.gov.
Copyright 2026 Hawaii News Now. All rights reserved.