Richmond Homeowner Reported Solar System Failures
A homeowner who invested over $129,000 in a solar setup now faces significant equipment issues.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Residential
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In May 2026, Richmond homeowner Marcus Evins filed complaints after identifying that 12 of his 45 solar panels were non-functional. The installation project, which took place in 2024, failed to deliver on expected energy savings.
Why it matters
The system was intended to lower high electricity costs that reached $400 per month in 2025, but broken equipment has prevented these savings. The dispute highlights the importance of vetting installers and understanding lender responsibilities when solar systems underperform.
The system involved 45 panels costing over $129,000, yet 12 panels remain non-operational. Currently, 352 complaints are listed with the Better Business Bureau and 21 with the Virginia Attorney General regarding the installer.
The players
Marcus Evins
A Richmond homeowner who contracted for a $129,000 solar panel installation that subsequently failed to perform.
Top Tier Solar Solutions
The installation company currently facing hundreds of consumer complaints across multiple regulatory databases.
GoodLeap
A financial lender involved in the solar project that is coordinating with the installer to resolve system malfunctions.
Virginia Attorney General
The state authority that maintains a public database of consumer complaints filed against businesses.
Better Business Bureau
An organization that tracks consumer reports and grievance filings against businesses to provide transparency.
The details
The solar installation process occurred in two stages, beginning with 33 panels before adding 12 more. Despite these additions, the system failed to reach the anticipated utility savings. GoodLeap is currently collaborating with Top Tier Solar Solutions to address the hardware failure and negotiate potential compensation for the affected homeowner.
Timeline
2023: The homeowner signed a contract with the solar company.
2024: The solar panels were installed on the home.
2025: The homeowner paid electric bills reaching $400 per month.
May 2026: The homeowner sent a formal demand letter to the company and lender.
The Home Front
This situation follows a pattern established by the surge in consumer complaints against solar installers tracked by the Better Business Bureau, signaling a wider industry issue with system reliability and accountability. The struggle reflects a broader trend of residents facing technical failures after significant capital investment.
Homeowners should regularly monitor their energy production data via their inverter or provider app to ensure all panels are active. If output drops unexpectedly, contact your installer or lender immediately to initiate a formal support request.
The takeaway
When significant home system failures occur, establishing a paper trail early via a formal demand letter is essential for protecting your investment. Keep all signed contracts and original correspondence in a centralized folder to expedite potential claims with lenders.
Further reading
For more information on navigating home improvement projects, visit the Residential section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by 8News.
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