By Sharon Noguchi, San Jose Mercury News, Calif.
Jun. 24--The owner of a San Jose solar company that advertised a "free solar program" but allegedly delivered nothing to many homeowners was arrested Tuesday on suspicion of theft and fraud.
Peter Be, 38, of Sunnyvale, is being held without bail at Santa Clara County Jail. He is chief executive and owner of Beohana Solar Corp.
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Santa Clara County district attorney's investigators found about 30 victims who together had paid more than $100,000 in deposits for residential solar systems. Many were never installed, said Ken Rosenblatt, supervising deputy district attorney. In addition, Be falsely claimed to be a licensed contractor, Rosenblatt said.
In marketing solar panels over the Internet, the company claimed, "You lease the solar system from us for 12 years at rates equal to or less than what you are paying your utility company now. At the end of the term, the solar system is yours to keep for FREE."
However, Rosenblatt said, after paying deposits to lease the systems, homeowners were given a written contract that stated that at the end of 12 years they had to pay the "fair market value" of the equipment.
If convicted on all charges, Be faces a maximum of 18 years in state prison.
Those with information on Beohana Solar may contact investigator Norm Levy in the District Attorney's office at 408-299-3099.
The state Contractor's State License Board has issued a warning about scams perpetuated by so-called green contractors
advertising environmentally friendly services. Consumers may check the status of contractors' licenses by calling an automated telephone number at 1-800-321-CSLB or by viewing the board's Web site, www.cslb.ca.gov, which also carries tips on hiring contractors.
Contact Sharon Noguchi at snoguchi@mercurynews.com or 408-271-3775.
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