Solar Panel Bankruptcies Leave Frustrated Homeowners in Limbo

Retiree Frank Deni wanted to cut expenses at his California home in 2023 by installing solar panels. He chose SunPower Corp., one of the largest US solar companies, which offered a 25-year “complete confidence” warranty.

He paid $36,470. Six months after installation and inspections were completed, SunPower filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.

Deni, 76, contacted SunPower, the judge overseeing its bankruptcy, consumer protection agencies, and panel manufacturer Waaree for answers. Enphase Energy, Inc., the maker of microinverters used with the panels, said it will honor its warranty, but there’s no information about Waaree or SunPower’s SunVault battery.

“People are trying ...