Industry experts speak on Renova Energy fallout after Mycrogrid acquisition

PALM DESERT, Calif. (KESQ) - It's been nearly two weeks since Renova Energy announced their acquisition by MycroGrid, an investor-backed company also owned by Renova CEO Vincent Battaglia. 

News Channel 3's Athena Jreij first broke the story exclusively in January, and has since received multiple calls from concerned customers and former employees that were let go. 

Now, sources say dozens have been laid off and customers are confused on where to get their service during the transition.

Glenn Splain, the CEO of Sunlogix solar company, says he has nearly 60 applications on his desk from former Renova employees.

He also says his phone has been inundated with calls from customers also confused on how to get service.

"We are getting a tremendous amount of calls, for need, for service, for help. Now, it's going to cost them extra money to get another solar provider to go out and help the customer that they signed an agreement with. Obviously they're upset over the situation because they thought they were getting something they didn't get," Splain said.

News Channel 3 called Renova Energy, and received an automated voicemail advising customers to seek service help if needed immediately, with other solar providers.

Getting answers, we reached out directly to CEO Vincent Battaglia for clarification on who can expect service.

He said in a statement:

"• Service of existing, fully paid (cash) systems is ongoing during the transition period. Customers with owned systems continue to receive service as normal through our company or can reach out to others if desired.

• Service of leased systems that were formerly with SunPower though built by Renova® Energy are being handled by SunStrong (833-514-1858), the legal owner of those systems.

• New system installations that were signed prior to February under the Renova® Energy brand are continuing installation during the transition period, including projects that experienced scheduling adjustments.

• All systems contracted under the Mycrogrid® brand will be installed and serviced following the official Mycrogrid® grand opening in spring."

Given the confusion, Splain says it's a sign shoppers should do their homework before buying.

"It's a 25-year relationship with the customer, so you really should do your due diligence. I think if people really looked into it, there's been several companies out here where people were CEOs of other solar companies out here, which reemerged into other companies as they hurt the customers. They're not able to service those customers. All the vendors got screwed over," Splain said.

He advises shoppers to connect with solar companies vendors to verify their books are right, and look at a company's history.

News Channel 3 has received several complaints from employees that were laid off, but all feared retaliation.

Stick with us as we continue to follow this story, through Mycrogrid's reopening in April.