NYC Sues Radiant Solar: Landmark Case Against Company Accused of Misleading Homeowners

Landmark Lawsuit Against Radiant Solar

• 🏙️ The city of New York has filed a landmark case against Radiant Solar and its owner, William James Bashelle, alleging hundreds of homeowners were misled into expensive solar deals.
• 💡 This legal action follows an investigation by CBS News New York, highlighting issues with solar panel installations and promised savings.

Homeowner Testimonials and Grievances

• 🏠 Homeowners like Arthur Klein reported issues such as panels installed in the wrong direction and extra holes in roofs.
• 💧 Others, like Errol Williams, experienced significant damage, including collapsed ceilings after the company allegedly drilled into their roofs.
• 💸 Customers like Laura Winter are facing electric bills of several hundred dollars per month despite having solar panels, contradicting promises of zero electrical costs.

Allegations and Company Response

• 📉 The city's Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) alleges that customers were steered into deals that did not deliver promised savings.
• 🗣️ Radiant Solar's attorney disputes the allegations, stating the company operated with a commitment to quality and transparency, and that any issues are from years ago.
• 🚫 The attorney also mentioned that Radiant Solar is not currently operating.

City's Pursuit of Restitution

• 💰 DCWP Commissioner Sam Lavine stated the case aims to recover money for victims, with the city seeking approximately $18 million in restitution.
• ⚖️ The lawsuit is notable for personally targeting the owner and his assets, creating a second pool of potential funds for homeowners.
• 🏦 The city is also investigating loan companies that partnered with Radiant Solar, as the solar loans are a significant part of the financial burden for homeowners.

Broader Impact and Consumer Burden

• 🛠️ Homeowners who cannot correct installation errors themselves are left with the added burden of paying for a non-functional system.
• 💔 The situation is described as heartbreaking, particularly for individuals on fixed incomes, where these financial issues are life-changing.