JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A solar company is offering to help Jacksonville area residents who were affected by panels installed by MC Solar, the company that has been in the middle of a News4JAX I-TEAM investigation following complaints from customers reporting high bills and little benefits.
MC Solar — a company based out of Texas — has gone out of business, and the Attorney General is now investigating almost 250 complaints against them for several issues with the company that range from solar panels that don’t work, to solar panels that are not providing the benefits they promised.
“It is a relief. Just a long journey but I’m glad it’s coming to an end,” homeowner Ernie May said.
Ernie and Jackie May were always interested in going solar and signed a contract two years ago with MC Solar after a salesperson came knocking on their door.
After they paid $63,0000 they got their solar panels, but they said they didn’t work.
“It was over 200 complaints so it ain’t just me. I know this is my issue, but people spend good money on things like this,” Jackie said.
The company is still unreachable with phone numbers out of service and their website taken down.
“Hopeless” is a word Jackie used to describe her situation to the News4JAX I-TEAM back in September. But now, she feels hopeful after Jacksonville-based Manatee Solar stepped in to help free of charge.
“They had some issues in the disconnect box, in the interconnection box and their batteries needed provisioned software updates. So, we were able to get a tech out and everything is working the way it should be,” Jonathan Fletcher with Manatee Solar said.
After a quick inspection by JEA, the Mays were on the grid.
“It feels good. It’s been down for a long time, I’m glad to see we were able to get this resolved,” Ernie said.
Fletcher said it feels good to be able to help families like the Mays.
“I kind of feel like I have a new friend. So, it’s nice to help them out,” Fletcher said.
Manatee Solar has set up a hotline to help other customers in the Jacksonville Area experiencing issues with their solar panels.
You can call 866-920-1310 to get in touch with a technician who can come out for an assessment.
JEA also encourages consumers to consider their options and make an informed decision before choosing a solar company.
Click here to access JEA’s consumer guide and their solar advisor tool.