Polish Competition Authority Targets Columbus Energy Over Consumer Practices

The President of Poland’s Office of Competition and Consumer Protection (UOKiK), Tomasz Chróstny, opened formal proceedings against renewable‑energy installer Columbus Energy. Consumers complained that the company repeatedly delayed refunds after contract cancellations and failed to provide clear information about the right to withdraw, installation schedules and the technical specifications of the heat‑pump and photovoltaic systems offered.

UOKiK criticized the firm for not specifying exact completion dates in contracts, instead stating that timelines would be arranged individually by phone or e‑mail. Complaints indicate that promised start‑up dates were frequently missed, and that customers were left unaware of the models and manufacturers of the equipment they purchased, limiting their ability to compare offers. Chróstny warned that switching to renewable energy is a costly investment and “consumers cannot buy a pig in a poke” when essential details are omitted.

The regulator’s action seeks to enforce clearer consumer information standards and proper contract‑termination procedures for companies operating in Poland’s growing renewable‑energy market.