A family in the UK has been left £3,000 poorer after the sudden collapse of Soly, the solar panel installation company partnered with furniture giant Ikea.
John and Sarah Thompson (names changed for privacy) signed a contract with Soly in late 2025, enticed by Ikea's trusted brand association and promises of sustainable energy savings. They paid a £3,000 deposit for a system that was never installed.
"We thought we were dealing with a reputable company because of the Ikea connection," said John Thompson. "When we heard Soly had gone into administration, we tried contacting everyone—Ikea, the administrators—but we've been told we're unsecured creditors and unlikely to get our money back."
Soly, which operated as Ikea's exclusive solar partner in several European markets, ceased trading in March 2026, leaving hundreds of customers in limbo. The company's collapse highlights the risks consumers face when dealing with third-party providers, even when they're endorsed by major brands.
Ikea stated: "We are deeply sorry to hear about the situation with Soly. While Soly operated as an independent partner, we are reviewing what support we can offer affected customers."
Consumer protection experts warn that deposits for services like solar installations are particularly vulnerable when companies fail.
"This case shows why consumers need to be cautious even with well-known brand partnerships," said consumer rights advocate Maria Chen. "Always check if deposits are protected by insurance or escrow arrangements."
The Thompsons are now considering legal action but face an uphill battle as unsecured creditors in the administration process. Their experience serves as a cautionary tale for homeowners investing in green home improvements.
"We wanted to do our part for the environment and save on energy bills," Sarah Thompson added. "Instead, we're left with a significant financial loss and no solar panels."