Solar Panels – You Need Approval to Install the Solar Systems
An LA Times story talked about how solar energy is one of the hottest topics on the market and many states are considering it, including California. But sometimes the owners have to struggle with the homeowners associations in order to get the approval to install the solar systems.
The Camarillo resident called Marc Weinberg asked his homeowner association for the permission to install the panels. He got the answer no. He then sued the group. The Spanish Hills Homeowners Assn. lost the trial and they were even forced to pay the legal fees of Marc Weinberg. There are many similar battles going on these days and people still need approval from the homeowners’ boards. But residents want to become more ecological and they are investing lot in order to benefit from the alternative energy.
Marty Griffin living in Santa Clarita has placed solar panels even after the homeowners association has rejected the application. They have also sued him and told him to remove the panels and place them in a more discreet place.
In Somerset County, N.J., one homeowner was even ordered to take down 28 installed panels. But he won the trial.
There are several states like Arizona, California, Colorado and Florida that have laws preventing homeowner groups from ordering these restrictions. This happened after many homeowners have won trials against associations.
The Solar Rights Act, adopted in 1978 by California is the main defense of the homeowners. This act protects the consumers and allows them to use solar energy technology. Unless the panels are creating a safety hazard, the homeowners association can’t do anything. Also, some solar advocates are now fighting to implement a federal version of that California law. But they are still in the beginning. Debates continue and the opinions are 50/50. Homeowner associations have not taken a position on that bill, yet. They said they will do that soon.
A few years ago the California state has launched a $3.3-billion effort in increasing the solar power efforts, offering rebates. The program is going really well. Also, the cost of small solar systems has dropped 9% in the last year which is great news for homeowners.
