The problem was that Solar Impact, a Gainesville, FL solar contractor, was permitted by GRU to cheat the lottery-style system by submitting incomplete applications in the names of unregistered LLCs, and making application for multiple systems per roof top (other contractors were not permitted to do the same). This practice, simply stated, resulted in a stacked deck which significantly disadvantaged other solar contractors, applicants, and Solar Impact’s own customers in the selection process. Subsequently, Solar Impact was awarded 80% of the commercial capacity.

Small solar arrays comprise much of the 7.3 MW in Gainesville; however, the largest feed-in tariff systems currently in operation there, are owned by German companies which have no other ties to the community. Participation in the feed-in tariff program by foreign companies results in a transfer of wealth out of the Gainesville area.

Civil suits are currently pending against GRU and Solar Impact.