Georgia Woman Stuck with Defective Solar Panels Wins Arbitration Case
Stephanie Parker, a resident of Byron, Georgia, was left with an $89,000 bill for a non-functional solar panel system installed by a company that later went out of business. The company, initially known as Power Home Solar and later as Pink Energy, went bankrupt, leaving Parker to deal with the finance company, GoodLeap.
Solar Panel System Fails to Deliver Promised Savings
Parker reported that the solar panels never worked as promised. Instead of saving on her utility bills, she experienced an increase, with her utility costs nearly doubling. Channel 2 Action News has covered similar stories over the past year, revealing that many Pink Energy customers were left with ineffective solar products and substantial debts.
Arbitration Results in Financial Relief
Through binding arbitration, Parker challenged her debt to GoodLeap and won. The arbitrator found that GoodLeap had significant control over Pink Energy’s actions and was partially responsible for the defective products. As a result, Parker was awarded more than $40,000, and her contract with GoodLeap was voided, erasing her debt.
Federal Trade Commission’s Stance on Lender Responsibility
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has acknowledged that lenders can be held responsible for partnering with companies that deceive consumers. This case underscores the FTC’s stance that lenders should be accountable for their business decisions and the companies they choose to work with.
Encouragement for Other Consumers
Parker’s victory serves as a reminder to other consumers that they should not feel powerless against unfair business practices. She encourages others to fight back and seek justice through available legal avenues, such as binding arbitration, which can expedite and simplify the resolution process compared to traditional lawsuits.
