Three convicted after elderly and vulnerable targeted in solar scams

Three men have been convicted following a major investigation into fraudulent trading practices targeting elderly and vulnerable people.

Operation Clementine was led by Kent County Council Trading Standards and supported by National Trading Standards Tri Region Regional Investigations Team and eCrime Team. 

The investigation uncovered a deliberate and systematic scheme of mis-selling solar energy products through Clear Renewables Ltd and Efficient Homes SE Ltd.

The firms deliberately targeted elderly and vulnerable people often using misleading scripts and high-pressure tactics. Internal notes seized from the businesses revealed a culture of contempt for victims with derogatory and discriminatory remarks about customers.

Convictions related to the fraudulent trading and mis-selling practices over several years affecting dozens of households across Kent where people were cold-called and told their solar panel systems needed urgent checks or upgrades. Sales representatives would visit homes under the guise of offering free assessments only to pressure consumers into buying unnecessary and overpriced equipment.

Expert evidence heard at Maidstone Crown Court confirmed the consumers’ original solar systems had been working efficiently. Inverters and batteries were replaced unnecessarily with some work found to be hazardous.

Consumers were charged thousands of pounds for equipment costing a fraction of the price, for example one victim was charged £4,200 for a Solar Edge inverter and optimisers that cost the company less than £800.

Passing sentence, His Honour Judge Branston noted almost all the victims were elderly and acknowledged the lasting impact it would have on them to have been victims of crime in their own homes.

Matthew Kyte, 38, of Gainsborough Gardens, Tonbridge, pleaded guilty to five counts of fraud by false representation and was sentenced to 16 months imprisonment, suspended for two years. He will also complete 10 days of rehabilitation and 180 hours of community service.

Ian Hitchings, 60, of Fennel Close, Maidstone, pleaded guilty to fraudulent trading halfway through the trial, after initially pleading not guilty, and was sentenced to 23 months imprisonment, suspended for two years. He will also complete 10 days of rehabilitation, 240 hours of community service, and he has been disqualified as a director for seven years.

Jesse Hitchings, 29, of Warmlake Orchard, Sutton Valence, was found guilty following a trial for two offences relating to fraudulent trading and a further two offences for money laundering. He was sentenced to three years imprisonment and disqualified as a director for seven years.

Kent County Council Cabinet Member for Community and Regulatory Services, Paul Webb, said: “The vast majority of victims in this case were in their 70s and 80s. The companies specifically targeted homeowners on low incomes, or in poorer areas and in one instance sold to a man of 90 with dementia.

“Victims have been left to deal with the shattering impact of unsafe installations and significant financial loss.

“I am pleased Kent County Council Trading Services has been able to secure these convictions and thank the team, and national colleagues, for their dedication in pursuing this case.”

Lord Michael Bichard, Chair of National Trading Standards, said: “Fraud in the energy sector is rife, and ruthless criminals continue to exploit people with lies and pressure tactics. In this case, vulnerable people who were simply trying to make responsible choices were targeted and manipulated.

“These sentences make one thing clear: this kind of behaviour will not be tolerated. Anyone thinking of scamming consumers or tarnishing the reputation of honest businesses should take note.”

Kent County Council Trading Standards Operations Manager, Clive Phillips, said: “I commend the officers, investigation and legal teams, with external support, for their tireless work in bringing this complex case to justice. I also pay tribute to the bravery of the victims, whose willingness to come forward and provide evidence was crucial to securing these convictions.

“This case highlights the importance of vigilance when dealing with unsolicited sales calls and home improvement offers. Consumers are urged to verify the credentials of any company offering services and to seek independent advice before agreeing to any work and to check the small print of contracts to ensure they are not agreeing to future, unwelcome, sales calls.”

If you suspect you’ve been scammed, or know someone who has, report it immediately to the Citizens Advice consumer service on 0808 223 1133.

ENDS