At least six container loads of PV modules claimed to have been fraudulently acquired have entered the UK from various European warehouses, Solar Power Portal understands.

One module supplier, believed to have been a victim of the fraud, asked Solar Power Portal to highlight to solar distributors and installers that UK authorities have been informed of the alleged theft, such as the police and HM Revenue and Customs.

Emails seen by Solar Power Portal confirm that police are aware of the apparent problem.

The PV modules were claimed to have been secured from European warehouses by false bank transfer documents.

The containers were said to have been received into the country at a warehouse in Essex and quickly picked up by trucks with Spanish registration plates.

The supplier, who requested anonymity, also asked Solar Power Portal to warn potential purchasers to be highly wary of being offered knocked-down prices and/or cash only deals at the present time.

Companies that are suspicious of any potential offer of modules should contact the authorities.

Solar Power Portal will provide report further details as they become available.