New York City has leveled serious allegations against solar panel company Radiant Solar, stating the company engaged in a fraud that has potentially cost New Yorkers millions, according to a CBS News New York report. The city's lawsuit claims that Radiant Solar peddled over $18 million in loans to customers, embedding nearly $3 million in concealed dealer fees, while also delivering substandard and sometimes dangerous installation services.
The Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) is seeking a hefty sum in civil penalties and restitution, totaling approximately $20 million. The investigation, which began in August 2024, after complaints dating back to December 2021, uncovered a startling array of alleged duplicitous actions by the company and its owner, William James Bushell, according to BK Reader. Beyond the financial misconduct, customers have reported significant property damage following installations, including one incident where an elderly customer's ceiling collapsed.
DCWP Commissioner Sam Levine stated, "Radiant Solar and William James Bushell exploited New Yorkers looking to lower their energy costs and protect our environment." He added, "Our lawsuit aims to shut down this scheme, recover $20 million for consumers and taxpayers, and send a clear message that preying on New Yorkers will come with serious consequences," in remarks obtained by BK Reader.
Radiant Solar's alleged malpractices include not only financial deception but also pressing safety concerns. Reports have surfaced of installations leading to leaky roofs, and structural instability. Following these installations, some of which have been characterized as poor-quality, incomplete, or nonexistent, the firm purportedly ignored consumer complaints, according to a CBS News New York investigation. There is one case in particular that stands out, where an 82-year-old retired carpenter experienced his ceiling collapse post-installation; a plight that the company attributed to unrelated factors.
Current attempts to reach Radiant Solar or its owner have been met with silence, no response was given to CBS News New York's calls for comment, and the company's website has gone offline.
