Connecticut is seeking judicial approval for a $5 million civil penalty against Vision Solar LLC to resolve the state's complaint over the company's unfair trade practices. In a motion filed Friday, the Connecticut attorney general's office requested that a state judge sign off on the judgment, which was agreed upon with a trustee for the now-bankrupt company in August and subsequently approved by a U.S. Bankruptcy Court earlier this month.

Allegations of Predatory Practices

The state filed its enforcement action against Vision Solar in 2023, accusing the New Jersey-based company of engaging in predatory sales tactics, misrepresenting financing terms, and installing rooftop solar systems without proper permits or licensed workers. These practices allegedly left numerous Connecticut residents saddled with costly loans for nonoperational solar systems.

Vision Solar, which filed for bankruptcy later in 2023, is facing similar consumer protection lawsuits in several other states, including New Jersey, Florida, Pennsylvania, Arizona, Delaware, Michigan, and Massachusetts. The company has been subject to dozens of legal actions across both state and federal courts.

Settlement Agreement and Penalties

In addition to the $5 million civil penalty, the settlement stipulates that Vision Solar must comply with Connecticut's consumer protection laws, including the Unfair Trade Practices Act, the Home Improvement Act, the Home Solicitation Sales Act, and occupational licensing statutes. The agreement seeks to ensure that Vision Solar’s marketing, contract execution, and installation practices adhere to state regulations moving forward.

Connecticut Attorney General William Tong, along with attorneys Joseph E. Gasser and Michael Nunes, represented the state in the case. Counsel information for Vision Solar has not been publicly disclosed.

Broader Implications

Vision Solar’s bankruptcy and subsequent legal battles reflect broader issues in the solar industry, where consumer complaints about misleading sales practices and incomplete installations have drawn increased scrutiny. This $5 million penalty represents a significant step by Connecticut in holding the company accountable for its actions.