Small investors lose thousands on solar firm

Many private investors, lured by higher returns and the feeling of doing something worthwhile, may have lost hundreds of thousands.

They bought bonds in a solar power company, PrimeEnergy Cleantech. 

It was particularly attractive to new retirees. They felt they were making a solid investment due to the backing of the Solar Impulse pilot, Bertrand Piccard, who was the company’s ambassador until recently. 

The bonds were supposed to pay out on a regular basis.  But that stopped over the summer. The company says it’s now in bankruptcy proceedings. 

People have lost between 20,000 and 200,000 francs. Many are considering filing a criminal complaint. 

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