Safety reminder issued to solar panel owners following arrests for fraud

Detectives investigating reports of solar panel fraud around the country have arrested four people in Whitstable and Herne Bay.

The arrests follow reports that between 2023 and 2026, elderly people were cold-called and deceived into paying for unnecessary solar panel upgrades which were not carried out. In some cases victims alleged that they were also not refunded their payments when requested.

Arrests

Officers arrested a 36 year old man from Whitstable and a 39 year old man from Herne Bay on Tuesday 14 July 2026. A 37 year old woman from Whitstable was arrested on 9 July, and a 65 year old man was arrested last year.

All were arrested on suspicion of fraud and money laundering offences and have been released pending further enquiries. A further non-custodial interview was carried out with a man suspected of being involved in fraudulent activity.

As part of the investigation, four warrants have been executed at properties in Whitstable, Herne Bay and Cambridgeshire.

Be alert to fraud

Residents with solar panels installed on their homes are being reminded to be wary when approached by cold-callers.

Detective Constable Darren Ousby said:

‘Be cautious if you are contacted out of the blue by someone offering grants, upgrades or repairs on your solar panels, either at the door or by phone, letter or email. ‘Don’t feel pressured into paying for a deal quickly. Legitimate companies will give you time to review the offer rather than insisting you accept it immediately. If an offer sounds too good to be true, it usually is. ‘In most cases, the victims are elderly, so if you have elderly relatives, friends or neighbours, take time to speak to them and ensure they are aware of the risk of fraud and what to do if they are approached. ‘If anything seems suspicious and you believe it might be a scam, report it to police immediately.’