Consumer Protection

Form

Submission Form

Have a general concern? Submit your complaint, concern, or contractor-specific questions to Connect@energy.virginia.gov.

COMING SOON! Concerns specifically related to the Home Energy Rebate programs (HOMES and HEAR) can be submitted through their program-specific websites.

Avoiding Scams

Protect Yourself from Scams or Misleading Sales Practices

Are you curious about the authenticity of sales messaging regarding energy-related improvements or equipment replacements? Some individuals or companies may use the Virginia Energy name or the name of one of our programs inappropriately or without permission. They may also make inaccurate or overstated claims about available energy incentives or programs.

Certain best practices are recommended to safeguard consumers and ensure customer satisfaction. The VEConnect website is a valuable tool to help you understand different programs and incentives available and to guide you in the right direction to participate in a program.

Virginia Energy encourages consumers to use the VEConnect website to ensure that they are participating in a program that is active in the Commonwealth of Virginia. There will soon be a section of the website featuring verified contractors and installers that are approved to participate in certain clean energy programs (e.g., Home Energy Rebates) or have proved that they have undergone trainings required to implement energy efficiency or renewable energy measures.

Information below is provided to help identify common energy-related scams, tips and red flags to watch out for, and more.





Best Practices


Implementing energy efficiency measures and installing solar can be great ways for your family to save on their electric bill. But just like any major home improvement, you have to make sure you are getting a fair price, solid warranties, and working with a reputable contractor. Use the industry recognized best practices below to ensure you are aware of all of your options and are working with a reputable company.

Always compare multiple quotes. It is always a good idea to shop around and compare at least three or more quotes before signing a contract. Not only does this allows you to compare different equipment and financing options, but it gives you time to verify the information received. You also get the benefit of seeing if any installers are noticeably inflating estimated annual production of a solar system or annual energy savings figures from efficiency measures. Comparing quotes can also give you room to negotiate a better price or product.

Understand the financing options available. There are generally several ways to finance improvements to your property. For example, with solar installation, you can finance with a solar loan, lease a solar system, or sign a power purchase agreement. If going with a solar loan, be sure to ask if it comes with any “finance” or “dealer” fees. Research your options up front to determine which one is right for you. The best option for you depends on your individual goals and finances.

Never give out personal information, such as a Social Security or credit card number, until you sign a legal contract.

Don’t sign anything until you are fully decided.

Always check a construction contractor or installer’s Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation license number to verify a worker is legitimate. The DPOR license search tool also allows you to see any open or closed complaints.

Understand your project. Ask questions to make sure you understand the timeline of your project, the length of the contract, what specific equipment/materials you may receive, and what warranties are included.

Challenge common misinformation. Oversimplification or misinformation can be a common occurrence. Confirm the information you are being told to avoid falling for false information.

Review the U.S. Department of Treasury Consumer Advisory for additional information on solar energy scams. Further resources from the U.S. Department of Treasury, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, and Federal Trade Commission on recognizing and avoiding solar scams are available here.

Coming soon

Program Specific Consumer Protection Plans

Content coming soon.




Coming soon

Known Scams

Content coming soon.






Privacy and Data Protection

No personal data is stored through VEConnect.

When applying for energy programs outside of VEConnect, personal information protection typically involves several layers of security and privacy practices to keep your data safe. For more information, reach out to the program administrator or provider of the specific program you are interested in applying for. Many programs will have a privacy statement on their website.



Tips for safeguarding personal information during the program application process:

  • Use secure networks. Avoid applying over public Wi-Fi.
  • Verify website security. Check that the website URL begins with https:// and shows a padlock icon in the browser’s address bar. This means the site uses encryption to protect data.
  • Research the program. Only apply through official, reputable program websites.
  • Avoid saving information on shared devices. Don’t save your login information or personal data on public or shared computers.
  • Keep software updated. Ensuring your device’s operating system, browser, and antivirus software are up to date will help guard against vulnerabilities.
  • Limit sharing sensitive information. Only provide information that is absolutely necessary for the application. Do no overshare details such as social security numbers or financial information unless you are sure it is required.