A court in Puerto Rico has upheld a ruling against Windmar PV Energy, Inc., ordering the company to pay damages for a faulty solar panel installation that caused water leaks in a homeowner's residence. The decision affects homeowners who may face similar issues with solar energy systems and highlights the responsibilities of contractors in such installations.
The case, Hugo Cabrera Umpierre v. Windmar PV Energy, Inc. (Docket TA2025AP00688), began when Hugo Cabrera Umpierre purchased a solar energy system from Windmar for $74,029.41. Following the installation on February 8, 2022, Cabrera Umpierre and his partner, Vibiana Vega, discovered water leaks in their home, which worsened over time. Despite multiple complaints to Windmar, the leaks persisted, leading Cabrera Umpierre to file a lawsuit against the company in December 2023 for breach of contract and damages.
The dispute escalated after Cabrera Umpierre sought a summary judgment, arguing that Windmar was negligent in its installation and had failed to fulfill its contractual obligations. Windmar contested the claims, asserting that Cabrera Umpierre had not mitigated the damages and that the company had responded adequately to the complaints.
On November 18, 2025, the San Juan Superior Court ruled in favor of Cabrera Umpierre, confirming that Windmar had indeed failed to address the issues properly. The court ordered Windmar to remove the solar system to allow for necessary repairs and awarded Cabrera Umpierre $51,350.44 in damages. Windmar appealed the decision, claiming that the lower court had erred in its findings and that there were substantial factual disputes that warranted a trial.
The appellate court, led by Judge Sánchez Báez, reviewed the case and determined that the lower court had correctly granted summary judgment. The ruling stated, "Windmar not only breached the contractual clauses but also failed to perform an adequate installation and did not provide the necessary repairs, causing the damages claimed by Mr. Cabrera Umpierre." The court confirmed the lower court's findings and the damages awarded.
This ruling carries significant implications for homeowners in Puerto Rico who invest in solar energy systems. It reinforces the notion that contractors are responsible for the quality of their work and the consequences of negligence. Homeowners may feel more empowered to pursue legal action if they encounter similar issues, knowing that the courts may support their claims against contractors who fail to meet their obligations.
Furthermore, the decision may set a precedent for future cases involving residential solar installations and the responsibilities of contractors in ensuring that their work does not cause damage to a homeowner's property. It emphasizes the importance of clear communication and accountability in the construction and installation industries.
Looking ahead, Windmar may consider appealing the decision to a higher court, although details on whether they will pursue this option were not available in the court filing. The outcome of this case could influence similar disputes in the future, particularly as more homeowners turn to renewable energy sources.