On January 7, 2025, the Utah House of Representatives introduced H.B. 57, titled the Residential Solar Panel Consumer Protection Amendments. This legislative bill aims to enhance consumer protections for individuals purchasing residential solar energy systems by establishing clear disclosure requirements for solar retailers.

The bill outlines several key provisions designed to ensure transparency and accountability in solar energy transactions. Among these provisions, solar retailers are mandated to provide detailed disclosure statements that include information about warranties, potential costs associated with filing notices in county real property records, and explicit disclaimers regarding the retailer's affiliations with utility companies or government agencies. Notably, the bill requires that any promises made by the retailer concerning cost savings or incentives must be documented in the disclosure statement, preventing misleading claims.

A significant aspect of H.B. 57 is the introduction of a "good faith estimate" provision. This allows solar retailers to provide estimated information if they do not have complete data at the time of disclosure, as long as they clearly indicate that the information is an estimate. Furthermore, the bill stipulates that customers can notify retailers if their solar energy systems produce less than 80% of the estimated energy output within 18 months of installation. In such cases, the retailer is obligated to repair or improve the system to meet at least 90% of the original estimate.

The introduction of H.B. 57 has sparked discussions among stakeholders in the solar energy sector. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary step to protect consumers from potential fraud and misrepresentation in the rapidly growing solar market. Critics, however, express concerns about the potential burden on solar retailers, suggesting that the stringent disclosure requirements may hinder business operations and discourage new entrants into the market.

The implications of H.B. 57 extend beyond consumer protection. As Utah continues to promote renewable energy initiatives, the bill could influence the state's solar market dynamics, potentially affecting pricing, competition, and consumer trust. Experts suggest that if passed, the legislation may lead to increased consumer confidence in solar investments, ultimately contributing to the growth of sustainable energy solutions in the state.

As the legislative process unfolds, stakeholders will be closely monitoring the bill's progress and its potential impact on the residential solar energy landscape in Utah.