Common Complaints

My Solar Was Installed but Never Turned On

March 19, 2026 · 4 min read

There are panels on your roof, but they've never actually produced power — and the loan payment shows up every month anyway. The missing piece is almost always something called Permission to Operate.

What 'Permission to Operate' means

Before a solar system can legally turn on and connect to the grid, your utility (FPL, Duke, etc.) has to issue Permission to Operate, or PTO. That only happens after permits are pulled, the install passes final inspection, and the interconnection paperwork is filed. If any of those steps were skipped, your system sits dark — legally off.

Permits were never closed out.
The final inspection never passed.
The interconnection application was never properly filed with the utility.
The installer disappeared before finishing.

A system with no PTO that's still being billed is one of the strongest fact patterns we see — you're paying for something that was never finished.

We pull your permit and PTO status, document that the system was never energized, and connect you with a vetted attorney.

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General information, not legal advice.

Frequently asked questions

What is Permission to Operate (PTO)?

PTO is the utility's official approval allowing your solar system to turn on and connect to the grid. It comes only after permits, a passed final inspection, and interconnection paperwork. Without it, the system is legally off — even if panels are installed.

Do I owe the loan if my solar never got PTO?

The loan is still owed on paper, but a system that was never energized is strong evidence of non-performance. Combined with the Holder Rule, it can be raised against your lender. Document the missing PTO and talk to an attorney before stopping payments.