State officials are cautioning Hawaii residents about misleading practices by some door-to-door solar sales representatives. The Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT), the Hawaiʻi Green Infrastructure Authority (HGIA), and the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) Office of Consumer Protection have received reports that certain salespeople are falsely claiming a state program offers free solar photovoltaic and energy storage systems.
Authorities clarify that there is no state program providing free solar PV systems, nor do any state employees sell these systems or conduct outreach through unsolicited visits or calls. “Official state of Hawaiʻi employees are able to present official photo ID cards upon request as proof of their employment,” according to the statement. The agencies also remind the public that in-person sales away from a business address are regulated by both state and federal consumer protection laws.
Hawaii Revised Statutes §480‑2 prohibits unfair or deceptive acts in commerce, including door-to-door sales. Sales representatives are not allowed to use deceptive tactics, and consumers have three business days after such a sale to cancel without penalty.
Residents who encounter individuals falsely claiming affiliation with HGIA, GEM$ (Green Energy Money $aver), other state agencies, or the electric utility should report these incidents to the Office of Consumer Protection at consumercomplaint.hawaii.gov or by calling 1-844-808-3222, Ext. 5. Information such as the salesperson’s name, company, and any recordings can be helpful for investigations.
“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 [email protected],” officials stated.
The warning comes as Hawaii continues efforts to advance renewable energy and combat climate change through collaboration between government entities (official website). The governor’s office has prioritized policies supporting recovery from wildfires, housing initiatives, tax reform for affordability, healthcare access expansion, and environmental measures (official website).
The Hawaii State Executive – Governor serves communities across Hawaii—including those affected by wildfires—and influences policy on issues like homelessness and renewable energy (official website).