A solar energy company in Truro, Nova Scotia, is undergoing restructuring, prompting customers to question the status of their pending installations.
Customer’s $31,000 Investment in Limbo
John Laska, a longtime resident of Valley, N.S., signed a contract with Sun Kissed Energy last year to install solar panels at his home. He and his wife Robin have lived there for nearly two decades and sought to reduce their reliance on traditional power sources.
“I’ve always wanted to be able to supplement our energy usage,” Laska stated. He selected the company due to its strong local presence, with vehicles frequently visible around town, and positive online reviews.
In July, Laska paid the full $31,000 upfront instead of financing. Design work concluded, and the firm informed him the project awaited approval from Nova Scotia Power. “Realistically, I knew if we could get this done before winter rolls around, that would be great, but it wouldn’t surprise me if they had to push it into the spring,” he noted.
Delays and Closure Rumors Emerge
An early January email attributed delays to holidays and weather. However, late-month social media activity fueled speculation about the company’s future. Laska requested a refund, though uncertain of receiving it, and expressed willingness to proceed with the installation.
“We have good exposure,” he said. “The proposal prepared by the company indicated we would generate roughly 120 percent of the energy we use.”
CEO Addresses Challenges
Sun Kissed Energy CEO Mark Shelley informed Laska on Thursday that the firm is restructuring. He linked reduced sales to recent changes in a federal program supporting energy efficiency upgrades, leading to staff layoffs, auctioning of company vehicles on Wednesday, and lockout from the New Glasgow office.
“Sun Kissed is not closed, and I am doing everything I can to get all the installs done. I am reaching out to all customers,” Shelley stated. He expects clearer updates in the coming weeks.
