Solar-related Crime is Increasing Globally

As the use of solar power has become increasingly prevalent in the United States, so too have the crimes associated with it. These crimes range from theft and vandalism to fraudulent sales and installation schemes, and they have the potential to undermine the growth of the solar industry and the benefits it offers to consumers and the environment. In this article, we will explore some of the most common crimes related to solar power in the US and how they can be prevented.

 Types of Solar-related Crimes 

Theft and Vandalism

One of the most common crimes associated with solar power is theft. Solar panels and other equipment are valuable and can be easily stolen from rooftops or other locations where they are installed. In some cases, thieves may target solar panels specifically because they are easy to remove and can be sold for a high price on the black market. In other cases, thieves may steal solar panels along with other valuable equipment from construction sites or storage facilities.

Vandalism is also a common problem for solar power installations. In some cases, vandals may damage solar panels by throwing rocks or other objects at them. In other cases, vandals may spray paint graffiti on solar panels or other equipment.

Preventing theft and vandalism is a key concern for solar power companies and homeowners alike. One of the most effective ways to prevent theft is to install security cameras or other monitoring equipment that can deter would-be thieves and provide evidence in the event of a theft. Fencing and other physical barriers can also help to prevent theft and vandalism. In addition, it is important to secure solar panels properly and other equipment to prevent them from being easily removed.

Fraudulent Sales and Installation Schemes

Another type of crime related to solar power is fraudulent sales and installation schemes. These scams typically involve companies that promise to install solar panels for free or at a significantly reduced cost, but then charge exorbitant fees for maintenance or other services. In some cases, these companies may also sell solar panels that do not work as advertised, or that do not meet safety or quality standards.

To prevent falling victim to these scams, it is important to do your research before signing a contract with a solar power company. Look for reviews and ratings from other customers, and check with organizations like the Better Business Bureau to ensure that the company is reputable. In addition, be wary of any company that asks for payment upfront or that pressures you into signing a contract before you have had a chance to evaluate your options fully.

Environmental Crimes

Solar power installations are designed to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and other forms of pollution, but they can also be the target of environmental crimes. For example, some solar power installations may be built on environmentally sensitive land or may disrupt the habitats of endangered species. In other cases, the manufacturing process used to create solar panels and other equipment may produce hazardous waste or other pollutants.

To prevent these types of crimes, it is important to carefully consider the environmental impact of any solar power installation before it is built. This may involve conducting environmental impact assessments or consulting with environmental experts to identify potential risks and mitigation strategies. It is also important to ensure that solar panels and other equipment are properly disposed of at the end of their useful life, to prevent them from becoming environmental hazards.

Conclusion

As the use of solar power continues to grow in the United States, so too will the crimes associated with it. These crimes range from theft and vandalism to fraudulent sales and installation schemes, and they have the potential to undermine the benefits that solar power offers to consumers and the environment. To prevent these crimes, it is important to take proactive steps to secure solar power installations, to evaluate the reputations of solar power companies carefully, and to carefully consider the environmental impact of any solar power installation before it is built. By working together to prevent these crimes, we can ensure that solar power continues

 Incident of Solar Crimes Recorded Globally 

Solar-related crimes can range from theft and vandalism of solar panels and equipment to scams and frauds related to solar energy systems. Some examples of solar-related crimes reported in the news in recent years include:

1. Theft of solar panels: In September 2021, it was reported that a group of thieves stole over 100 solar panels from a farm in Australia. In August 2021, it was reported that over 400 solar panels were stolen from a solar farm in the United States.

2. Vandalism of solar panels: In July 2021, it was reported that a group of vandals damaged over 50 solar panels in a solar energy park in India. In June 2021, it was reported that a man was arrested for shooting at solar panels on a property in the United States.

3. Solar panel scams and frauds: In August 2021, it was reported that a man in the United States was sentenced to prison for running a solar panel scam that defrauded investors out of millions of dollars. In March 2021, it was reported that a man in India was arrested for running a similar solar panel scam that defrauded investors out of crores of rupees.

ABC 7 investigates and reported 1 incident. It is worth noting that solar-related crimes are relatively rare compared to other types of crimes, and that solar energy is generally considered to be a safe and secure form of renewable energy.