Momentum Solar, the largest independent U.S. solar energy provider, has grown from two employees to over 1,200 staff members in under a decade. Despite receiving $7.2 million in tax incentives from New Jersey in 2018, the Momentum Solar lawsuit situation has become increasingly complex with multiple legal challenges emerging since 2019.
The company faces serious allegations ranging from racial discrimination to violations of the Telephone Consumer Protection Act. In fact, several lawsuits claim systematic issues, including reports of unequal pay where Black employees allegedly received significantly lower wages than their white counterparts. These legal challenges have raised important questions about the company’s practices and their implications for current and potential customers.
This comprehensive guide examines what customers need to know about the Momentum Solar lawsuit developments, including recent settlements, ongoing legal proceedings, and steps to protect their interests as consumers.
Understanding Momentum Solar Company’s Legal Challenges
The legal landscape surrounding the Momentum Solar lawsuit has become increasingly intricate over recent years. The company, which started as a small enterprise in 2009, now faces multiple legal challenges that have drawn attention from both the renewable energy sector and legal communities.
Overview of recent lawsuits
The Momentum Solar lawsuit portfolio encompasses various legal actions, primarily centered around allegations of discriminatory practices and consumer protection violations. A significant class action lawsuit emerged when George Moore filed against Pro Custom Solar LLC (Momentum Solar) in Illinois federal court. The lawsuit alleged violations of the Telephone Consumer Protection Act of 1991, claiming unauthorized calls to individuals registered on the National Do Not Call List.
Moreover, six former employees from Momentum Solar’s New York warehouse initiated a class action lawsuit in the United States District Court, Eastern District of New York. These employees reported experiencing wage disparity and limited advancement opportunities within the organization. The legal filing detailed instances where Black employees allegedly received substantially lower wages, with some earning $15.00 per hour while new white employees without experience started at $22.00 per hour.
Timeline of major legal events
The chronological progression of the Momentum Solar lawsuit developments reveals a pattern of mounting legal challenges:
- May 2019:
- Six Black employees filed the initial discrimination lawsuit in federal court, Brooklyn. The case sought class action status to represent employees from the Plainview, NY warehouse.
- December 2019: A former employee, Jessica Adams, filed additional claims regarding pregnancy discrimination and retaliation. The suit alleged violations of the Civil Rights Act after she was terminated following her pregnancy announcement.
- 2021: A new set of plaintiffs brought forward similar discrimination allegations, additionally claiming that work teams were segregated based on race. The lawsuit alleged that white and Latino teams received preferential assignments with higher compensation.
- Early 2022: Another case, Murrell v. Pro Custom Solar LLC, focused on wage-related issues. The plaintiffs alleged that Momentum failed to:
- Compensate employees for overtime work
- Pay for employee travel time
- Reimburse equipment purchases
- Telemarketing Lawsuits – Some cases have settled, but new complaints continue into 2024.
- Employee Poaching Lawsuit – This one concluded in November 2024, with a $6 million settlement.
Furthermore, the company faced scrutiny from multiple regulatory bodies. The National Labor Relations Board opened case number 22-CA-254647 in January 2020, which ultimately resulted in a bilateral settlement agreement by May 2022.
The most recent development occurred in July 2023, when David Munoz initiated legal proceedings in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York. This case primarily addresses Fair Labor Standards Act violations, adding another layer to the ongoing Momentum Solar lawsuit situation.
The company’s response to these allegations has remained consistent throughout these legal challenges. When confronted with discrimination claims, Momentum Solar maintained that the terminations were based on legitimate, non-discriminatory reasons. These reasons included unacceptable workplace behavior, poor performance, and violations of company policies. Nevertheless, the mounting number of legal actions has raised questions about the company’s practices and their potential impact on both employees and customers.
Key Details of the Momentum Solar Lawsuit 2023
Recent legal documents clearly reveal disturbing patterns of workplace discrimination at Momentum Solar, which has prompted multiple employees to take legal action. Moreover, the allegations paint a concerning picture of systematic bias within one of America’s fastest-growing solar installation companies.
Racial discrimination claims
Court filings indicate that Black employees at Momentum Solar’s New York warehouse endured a hostile work environment marked by persistent racial harassment. Workers reported frequent use of racial slurs by white colleagues and supervisors without any consequences. Particularly troubling was the conduct of foreman Adam Murawski, who allegedly used racial slurs regularly both in front of and directed towards Black employees.
The workplace culture allegedly extended beyond verbal abuse. Black employees were reportedly assigned less desirable jobs compared to their white counterparts. This systematic discrimination allegedly affected their ability to meet performance objectives and earn bonuses.
Employee allegations
The scope of employee allegations extends beyond racial slurs to include systematic wage discrimination. Black employees reportedly received significantly lower compensation than equally qualified white colleagues. In one striking example, a former employee named Tevin Brown remained at $15.00 per hour while a new white employee with no experience started at $22.00 per hour.
The lawsuit outlines several concerning practices:
- Division of workers into racially segregated teams, labeled as “Spanish team,” “white team,” and “Black team”
- Assignment of less favorable jobs to predominantly Black teams
- Harsher disciplinary actions against Black employees for similar infractions
- White employees receiving raises 300% higher than equally qualified Black colleagues
Company’s response
Initially, Momentum Solar disputed these allegations vigorously. The company stated there was “no basis in law or fact” for the claims. They attributed the terminations to legitimate, non-discriminatory reasons, specifically citing:
- Unacceptable workplace behavior
- Fighting incidents
- Poor performance
- Attendance issues
- Violations of company policies
However, subsequent developments suggest otherwise. Each plaintiff who reported discrimination to management was terminated within weeks of complaining – some as soon as the next day. One employee, Garreth Murrell, received a text message stating “We don’t need your services anymore” shortly after raising concerns about racism and xenophobia within the company.
The mounting evidence has led to multiple settlements, although specific terms remain confidential. These legal challenges continue to shape discussions about workplace discrimination in the renewable energy sector, particularly as Momentum Solar maintains its position as a major player in residential solar installations.
Impact on Current Momentum Solar Customers
Current Momentum Solar customers face mounting concerns as legal challenges continue to unfold. The ongoing Momentum Solar lawsuit situation has sparked questions about service reliability and long-term warranty protection for existing system owners.
Service continuity concerns
Customer experiences with Momentum Solar reveal significant service-related issues. Many homeowners report extended delays in system activation, forcing them to manage both loan payments and regular utility bills simultaneously. These delays stem primarily from paperwork errors and communication breakdowns between the company and power utilities.
System performance issues also plague numerous installations. Multiple customers express dissatisfaction with their systems’ energy production levels and post-installation energy bills. One customer reported receiving a shocking $900 monthly electric bill, despite promises of substantial energy cost reduction.
Installation quality has emerged as a critical concern. Several customers have documented cases where improper installations led to:
- Roof leaks requiring multiple repair attempts
- Water damage to interior ceilings and living spaces
- Operational problems affecting system efficiency
Response times for troubleshooting and repairs remain problematic, with customers experiencing lengthy wait periods, especially for roof-related issues requiring panel removal.
Warranty implications
The Momentum Solar lawsuit developments have raised serious questions about warranty coverage. For purchased systems, the company offers notably shorter warranty periods compared to leased installations:
- Purchased Systems:
- 10-year workmanship warranty
- 5-year equipment warranty
- 5-year roof penetration warranty
- Leased Systems:
- 25-year workmanship warranty
- 5-year roof penetration warranty
Notably, even with the workmanship warranty in place, leasing agreements require customers’ homeowner insurance policies to cover system-related damage. This requirement has created confusion among customers about responsibility for repairs and maintenance.
A particularly concerning trend involves warranty claim processes. When issues arise, customers often discover that coverage is more restricted than initially understood. The company’s website contains conflicting warranty information, and attempts to clarify coverage details frequently result in prolonged customer service delays.
For homeowners considering legal action due to service or warranty issues, understanding contract terms becomes crucial. Many Momentum Solar contracts contain arbitration clauses that may limit legal options. Additionally, secured solar loans through the company carry significant risks – defaulting on payments could potentially lead to both system repossession and home foreclosure.
The situation clearly underscores the importance of thorough contract review and proper documentation maintenance for current customers. Furthermore, those experiencing issues should carefully document all communication attempts, system problems, and related expenses to better protect their interests as the Momentum Solar lawsuit proceedings continue to develop.
Momentum Solar Class Action Lawsuit Status
Several class action lawsuits against Momentum Solar have emerged, primarily centered on telemarketing practices and racial discrimination. As a result, the legal proceedings continue to shape the company’s future while also determining potential compensation for affected individuals.
Settlement details
A recent settlement has been reached in the racial bias class action lawsuit filed by a Black worker’s estate. Though the specific terms remain confidential, Judge Michael A. Hammer of the US District Court for the District of New Jersey issued a 60-day dismissal order, allowing time for settlement completion.
In another significant Momentum Solar lawsuit, plaintiffs seek damages of up to $1,500 per violation for unauthorized telemarketing calls. The case, Moore v. Pro Custom Solar LLC, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, demands a jury trial and injunctive relief.
Eligibility criteria
Potential class members for the telemarketing lawsuit include U.S. residents who received:
- At least one automated marketing call from Momentum Solar within the past four years
- Calls without providing prior express written consent
- Calls despite being registered on the National Do Not Call list
For the workplace discrimination lawsuit, eligibility extends to Black field installation development employees, including:
- Installers
- Electricians
- Roof leads
- Foremen
Who worked at Momentum Solar’s New Jersey warehouses during the statutory period.
Claim filing process
The claim filing process varies depending on the specific Momentum Solar lawsuit. For eligible class members, courts typically send notifications through mail with detailed instructions about determining eligibility and filing claims. Currently, the process involves:
- Documentation Requirements
- Proof of receiving unauthorized calls
- Evidence of Do Not Call list registration
- Employment records (for discrimination cases)
- Legal Representation
- Class members may contact TCPA Class Action Lawyers for assistance
- Individual claims can be filed separately from class actions
- Status Monitoring
- The litigation process continues with ongoing discovery
- Both parties are gathering facts and information
- Critical legal battles regarding class certification remain ahead
The mandatory settlement conference in 2022 proved unsuccessful, yet possibilities for resolution through settlement rather than continued litigation remain open. Plaintiffs continue pursuing class certification, marking a crucial phase in the legal proceedings.
For individuals who believe they qualify for any of these class actions, therefore, maintaining detailed records of interactions with Momentum Solar becomes essential. Specifically, this includes preserving call logs, employment documentation, and any correspondence that might support their claims.
Customer Protection Steps
In light of this, protecting consumer interests becomes crucial amid the ongoing Momentum Solar lawsuit developments. Moreover, understanding key protective measures helps safeguard homeowners’ investments and legal rights.
Contract review guidelines
Before signing any agreement with Momentum Solar, customers must scrutinize several critical contract elements:
- Financial commitments: Examine long-term obligations, including potential penalties for early contract termination
- Insurance requirements: Review mandatory coverage clauses, as some contracts demand $1 million liability insurance
- Performance guarantees: Verify promised energy production levels and associated warranties
- Hidden fees: Look for additional charges like power company inspection costs, which can add $100,000 to the total expense
Documentation requirements
Maintaining comprehensive records throughout the solar installation process remains essential:
- Pre-installation records:
- Copies of utility statements showing actual energy consumption
- Written communications with sales representatives
- Original contract documents and amendments
- Proof of promised tax incentives or rebates
- Post-installation documentation:
- System performance data
- Monthly utility bills
- Service request records
- Warranty claims correspondence
Legal rights awareness
Understanding consumer protections helps homeowners navigate potential disputes effectively. Key rights include:
- Contract cancelation: State laws often provide specific timeframes for contract cancelation without penalties
- Data privacy: Customers can request access to their personal information and opt-out of future communications
- Fair billing practices: Protection against unauthorized charges or billing before system activation
- Complaint filing options: Multiple channels exist for addressing grievances:
- Direct communication with Momentum Solar
- State consumer protection agencies
- Better Business Bureau
- Legal consultation for potential claims
For customers experiencing issues with Momentum Solar panels or services, consulting legal professionals helps evaluate available options. This becomes particularly important when dealing with:
- Contract disputes
- Installation problems
- Performance guarantees
- Warranty claims
- Billing discrepancies
Homeowners should carefully document any telemarketing calls received, as these may violate the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA). Recent settlements show compensation of $500 for each unauthorized call.
Understanding arbitration requirements within contracts proves crucial, as these clauses may affect legal options. Additionally, customers should review their rights under consumer protection laws, including the Fair Credit Reporting Act and Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, particularly if payment disputes arise.
Momentum Solar Lawsuit Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Momentum Solar lawsuit about?
The Momentum Solar lawsuit involves claims related to deceptive sales practices, customer disputes, and labor issues. Several customers and employees have raised concerns over contracts, billing, and workplace conditions.
Is Momentum Solar facing legal action in 2025?
Yes, Momentum Solar is involved in ongoing legal proceedings in 2025. The lawsuit covers allegations of misleading sales tactics and unfair labor practices.
What are the main legal challenges facing Momentum Solar?
Momentum Solar is facing multiple lawsuits, including allegations of racial discrimination in the workplace and violations of the Telephone Consumer Protection Act. The company has been accused of wage disparity, limited advancement opportunities for Black employees, and making unauthorized marketing calls.
What is the lawsuit against Momentum Solar?
The momentum solar lawsuit involves claims related to customer service issues, contract disputes, and deceptive sales practices. Some customers have alleged hidden fees and misleading information about savings.
What should potential customers consider before signing a contract with Momentum Solar?
Before signing, customers should carefully review contract terms, cancellation policies, and warranty details. Researching past complaints and understanding financing options can help avoid unexpected costs.
How might the lawsuits affect current Momentum Solar customers?
Current customers may experience delays in service, contract adjustments, or potential changes in company policies. The momentum solar lawsuit could also lead to improved customer protections if legal actions result in stricter regulations.
Will the Momentum Solar lawsuit affect existing customers?
Current customers may experience delays or changes depending on the lawsuit’s outcome. It’s best to stay informed and review contract terms carefully.
What warranty does Momentum Solar offer for their solar panel systems?
Momentum Solar offers different warranty terms for purchased and leased systems. Purchased systems typically come with a 10-year workmanship warranty, 5-year equipment warranty, and 5-year roof penetration warranty. Leased systems generally have a 25-year workmanship warranty and a 5-year roof penetration warranty.