Following action by the OFT the directors of a solar water heating company have pledged to improve their trading practices.

The OFT has secured formal undertakings from Smart Energy (UK) Limited and its directors Allan Berry, Michael Lowes, and Gary Payne, that they will not, in the course of business, breach consumer protection legislation.

The undertakings prohibit Smart Energy from:

• Making unsubstantiated claims that consumers will recoup their costs through savings from the product
• Giving the misleading impression that the performance of the product is not affected by weather conditions
• Making false claims to have ISO Quality, or other accreditation
• Supplying goods which are of unsatisfactory quality or not fit for purpose
• Failing to repair or replace goods within a reasonable time and without causing significant inconvenience

The action was brought following the receipt of consumer complaints against the company, which leafleted homes and sold products for up to £6,000.


Mike Haley, OFT Director of Consumer Protection said: "It is important that traders provide accurate information about their products and services particularly in emerging markets such as renewable energy where consumers are unfamiliar with the technical specifications of products. Consumers also have a right to expect the professional fitting and installation of solar heating products."

(CD/JM)