Substitute Senate Bill No. 233 seeks to strengthen consumer protections for residential solar photovoltaic and energy storage systems, with new provisions set to take effect on October 1, 2026. The bill introduces several key definitions, including "consumer good," which now explicitly encompasses residential solar and energy storage systems, thereby broadening the scope of consumer protections. It also updates existing terminology, replacing "buyer" with "consumer" throughout the text, and clarifies the definition of "home solicitation sale" to reflect modern practices. The bill mandates the Office of Consumer Counsel to develop a consumer handbook by December 31, 2026, which will guide consumers on assessing sales claims and understanding their rights, including cancellation procedures.

In addition to these updates, the bill imposes new regulations on sellers of residential solar and energy storage systems, such as restricting solicitation hours, requiring valid identification, and mandating the provision of the consumer handbook during initial interactions. It establishes that consumers have the right to cancel contracts within three business days and outlines the obligations of sellers to return payments and goods upon cancellation. The bill also introduces civil penalties for violations and ensures that any contracts waiving consumer rights are voidable. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance transparency and consumer protection in the residential solar and energy storage market, ensuring that consumers are well-informed and safeguarded in their transactions.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 42-136, 42-137, 42-138, 42-139, 42-140, 42-141
GL Joint Favorable Substitute: 42-136, 42-137, 42-138, 42-139, 42-140, 42-141
File No. 218: 42-136, 42-137, 42-138, 42-139, 42-140, 42-141