While this may seem like an attempt to poke a stick at the leader of our great country, the reality is that I can a) lover solar power, b) willing to buy into solar power for my home, c) can afford PV solar power for my home, but d) will not be able to without federal intervention.
Like OTARD, homeowners in planned communities are often under the constraints of covenants and other HOA rules. These HOAs, while fairly sincerely in their original concept or protecting the community from slumhood, is too broad, to HOA board empowering, and often abuses homeowners due to ignorances.
On the other forums I visits, its not uncommon for homeowners to post complaints about their HOA restricting the installation of satellite dishes. While the HOAs cannot prevent this due to OTARD (Over The Air Receiver Dish), the same accommodations on the federal level need to be made if Mr. President really thinks grass roots solar power can really take off.
I like how the state of Massachusetts offers homeowners a 50% rebate on any installed alternative system. Cost analysis that I did in 2001 and in 2007 reflect that the costs dropped, and for my application made it even more affordable before any rebate effort by anyone.
But, the aspect that PV solar could be free and still not allowed in my HOA controlled community, and I think this can be said for a lot of homeowners living in planned communities. So, when I see the President standing there in a PV solar factory signing a stimulous package I have to say, whoopie freaking doo!
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Nuke - I luv ya, man - you serve as an example -
I'm guessing 90%+ of homeowners are not covered by a HOA -
and how about attending a HOA meeting and championing solar? - if the US can suspend Habeus Corpus, your HOA can change the rules to allow solar - warning: it will take more than one meeting
when I hear you whine about the consequences of the housing choice you made, I think 'whoopie freaking doo'!
David, I have no information on a national level. I can only look and see what its like in my county, who's population tripled in 10-15 years with an extremely strong focus by the county to encourage planned, HOA communities over anything else.
Also, I spoke for myself as a naive first-time homebuyer.
Here in Colorado, the state passed a law saying that HOA's cannot interfere with a PV installation. That it is outside the area of HOA governance.
Perhaps that's the route you'll wish to pursue?
A friend of mine wants to install a PV system at his home in a gated community and the county has become the major obstacle. His HOA isn't thrilled with the idea, but recognizes that they don't have the authority to stop it. The county, however, is demanding a $7000 fee to "study" the system before the permit process (more $$) can begin.Since the county rules seem to contradict the state's efforts to promote alternate energy, it appears that a lawsuit may be coming.
in jersey if you own the roof , a hoa can't say squat.
the 7000 fee sound fictious to me. If this is in CA, I know people that can help
Nuke,
planned communites need their own advocate for such things.. If you really believe in it take members of the council aside and queitly talk to them..
Accept that whatever is approved will be standardized.
Perhaps you should try to get on the board..
Lacking that sell and buy where solar is approved..
It's still a free world..
Pete, frenchy, I think that is exactly what I need to do. When the basement is complete, I'll focus on that.
Biggest problem in NJ is the time it takes to jump through all the hoops and over the red tape.
I have a guy waiting two years so far for approval, from the self appointed powers that be.
At this rate the sun will go out before then!