Ameren warns customers of emerging solar panel scam

ST. LOUIS – Ameren is alerting customers in Missouri and Illinois about a growing solar panel where callers and door-to-door solicitors are impersonating company representatives.

These scammers often claim to be affiliated with Ameren or one of its vendors, offering to install solar panels to reduce monthly energy bills. They use fake phone numbers and automated calls to make their pitches and frequently attempt to schedule in-home appointments.

“This scam is widespread throughout Missouri and Illinois, with scammers robo-calling through an app,” said Jeff Tramel, communications manager at Ameren. “The most common tactic is that they mention Ameren as a way to legitimize their scam.” 

“We do not sell solar panels or contract with any companies to sell or install them.” he said.

Carlos Ross, security manager for Ameren, said the utility has received numerous reports of the activity in recent weeks.

Ameren urges customers not to provide personal or financial information over the phone. Suspicious calls should be reported to Ameren Illinois at 1-800-755-5000, and Ameren Missouri at 1-800-552-7583, or to local law enforcement.

For more information and scam prevention tips, visit Ameren.com/stop-scams.