Repeals the "Residential Solar Energy Disclosure and Homeowners Bill of Rights Act." Amends title 5 "Businesses and Professions" to include a new chapter 93, an amended "Residential Solar Energy Disclosure and Homeowners Bill of Rights Act."
The proposed changes would significantly impact state law by setting forth clearer guidelines and obligations for solar retailers when dealing with residential customers. The new requirements are designed to enhance transparency in transactions, ensuring consumers are appropriately informed about the financial and operational aspects of solar systems. All solar retailers would be required to register with the Relevant Department and renew their registration regularly, thereby establishing a structured and regulated market for residential solar energy systems.
S2801, known as the Residential Solar Energy Disclosure and Homeowners Bill of Rights Act, aims to amend existing laws regarding the sale and lease of residential solar energy systems in Rhode Island. The bill proposes the repeal of the current Residential Solar Energy Disclosure and Homeowners Bill of Rights Act, intending to implement a more robust framework that emphasizes consumer rights and essential disclosures when entering solar agreements. It establishes requirements for solar retailers to provide standard disclosure forms that outline critical aspects of solar agreements, including costs, potential savings, and warranties.
The general sentiment around S2801 appears to be supportive, particularly among consumer advocacy groups and legislators who view the enhanced disclosure requirements as necessary protections for homeowners engaging with solar retailers. However, some concerns have been voiced regarding the potential for increased regulatory burdens on solar retailers, which could impact the growth of the solar market in Rhode Island.
Notable points of contention in the discussions surrounding S2801 include concerns from solar retailers about the implementation of stringent disclosure requirements which they fear may complicate sales processes. Some critics argue that excessive regulation could deter businesses from entering the solar market, ultimately hindering consumers' access to affordable solar energy solutions.