"Two UK solar panel firms have been shut down after taking more than £3 million from pensioners through a refund scam that promised government-backed grants to cover installation and maintenance costs. The Insolvency Service confirmed that Trident West Industries Ltd and Star Solar Ltd misled dozens of homeowners with cold calls and doorstep sales. The case has reignited warnings for anyone investing in home energy systems to double-check company credentials before signing contracts."
"Investigators found that sales representatives from both companies targeted elderly homeowners - with an average victim age of 76 - promising government refunds that never existed. Between May 2023 and January 2025, more than £3.1 million flowed through the companies' accounts, yet only £7,010 was returned to nine complainants. Despite multiple County Court Judgments worth over £400,000, the promised equipment and maintenance services were rarely delivered, leaving homeowners out of pocket and without support."
Two companies, Trident West Industries Ltd and Star Solar Ltd, were shut down after using cold calls and doorstep sales to mislead mainly elderly homeowners with promises of government refunds and grants. Sales representatives targeted customers with an average age of 76, and between May 2023 and January 2025 more than £3.1 million passed through the companies' accounts while only £7,010 was returned to nine complainants. Multiple County Court Judgments totaling over £400,000 failed to secure equipment or maintenance delivery for most victims. Consumers are advised to use MCS-accredited installers, avoid signing under pressure, and research firms via Companies House.
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