07/18/2024
Dan Wesson
Kempner, TX
After investing $50,000 in a solar system installed by LA Solar three years ago, we're facing significant issues due to improper installation and mapping. SolarEdge replaced our faulty inverter under warranty but identified several non-functioning optimizers (enhancers) that also need replacement. However, due to LA Solar's incorrect mapping, it's impossible to pinpoint which specific optimizers are malfunctioning without inspecting each panel individually. This error has turned what should be a simple warranty replacement into a complex and expensive ordeal. Multiple installers have quoted around $10,000 for the necessary inspection and repairs, all agreeing that LA Solar should be responsible for rectifying their mistake. Unfortunately, LA Solar has ceased communication after we relayed this information. The consequences of this situation are severe. Our substantial investment in clean energy, motivated by our commitment to combating climate change, is now essentially non-functional. The potential long-term savings we anticipated have been wiped out by this unforeseen complication. Proper initial mapping would have allowed for easy identification and replacement of faulty optimizers through the monitoring system. Instead, we're left with a system requiring costly manual inspection of every panel. We're deeply disappointed and feel misled by LA Solar. We hope they'll reconsider their stance and take responsibility for repairing our system, ensuring it functions as intended and preserves our investment in sustainable energy. Dear LA Solar, I'm writing to follow up on the ongoing issues with my solar system installed by LA Solar. Here's a summary of the situation: 1. Solar Edge replaced my inverter on May 23, 2024, after coordination with LA Solar. 2. Solar Edge identified multiple inoperable enhancers, which they would replace for free. However, they noted that the initial installation was incorrect, requiring all 36 panels to be removed and re-mapped to properly diagnose and fix the issue. 3. I've been in communication with Susan G. (susan@lasolargroup.com) about this matter. While she was initially responsive, I haven't heard from her in the past three weeks. Her last correspondence on June 18, 2024, mentioned difficulties in scheduling a technician due to Eugene Shneyde (Eugene@texassolargroup.com) being overwhelmed. 4. I've received a quote of $10,000 for the necessary re-mapping and reinstallation. Given that I invested over $50,000 in this system, I expected it to be installed correctly. The current situation, where the system was improperly mapped and requires extensive work to fix, is deeply concerning. This is especially troubling considering the generous government subsidies provided to solar companies, which come with the expectation of proper installation and functionality. As a company at the forefront of the climate change movement, I believe LA Solar has both a legal and moral obligation to rectify this installation error promptly and at no additional cost to me. I kindly request an immediate response detailing LA Solar's plan to address and resolve this issue. If I don't receive a satisfactory response within the week, I will be forced to explore other options, including legal recourse and reporting to relevant authorities. I appreciate your prompt attention to this matter. I feel it's important to emphasize the significant impact this situation has had on my family: Since May 2024, our solar system has not been functioning properly. This malfunction has coincided with the peak summer months in Texas, when our energy consumption is at its highest. The timing is particularly challenging as we have a 1-year-old child whose comfort and safety depend on maintaining a properly cooled home during the intense Texas heat. The non-functional solar system has not only led to increased energy costs during this critical period but has also compromised our ability to maintain a comfortable and safe environment for our young child. This ongoing issue has caused considerable stress and financial burden on our family during an already demanding time. I trust you understand the urgency of this situation and will take immediate action to resolve it. We're counting on LA Solar to fulfill its commitment to providing reliable, sustainable energy solutions, especially when it matters most for families like ours. Sincerely, Jason Smith
System size (kW): 16
System price: $50,000
Year installed: 2021
Price include the Federal Tax Credit or incentives: Yes
LA Solar Group reply
08/02/2024
Hi Jason, upon reviewing your case, I found that your installation and service were managed by another company, and Eugene Shneyde's involvement was an error as your details were mistakenly added to our portal.
Despite this, Eugene and our team are committed to helping you resolve this issue. While you are not our direct customer, we understand the gravity of the situation and are willing to provide assistance.
To ensure we can address your concerns efficiently, I suggest we schedule a detailed review of your system. Please provide us with a convenient time for our team to discuss the next steps and how we can support you in rectifying the installation errors.
Again, we apologize for the confusion and any frustration this has caused. We are here to help and will do our best to assist you in resolving these issues promptly.
Sincerely,
LA Solar Group