High Court Decision on Homeowners Associations and Solar Power: Implications for Home Solar Energy Installations

Going solar is a smart move for homeowners seeking to cut electricity costs and promote eco-friendly living. However, homeowners associations (HOAs) have historically posed a challenge by enforcing rules restricting solar panel installations. But, great news for North Carolina residents, as the power of HOAs in blocking solar projects is diminishing, making it easier for homeowners to embrace solar energy.

Solar Access Laws - Understanding the Basics

Solar access laws ensure that homeowners, even those living in HOA-governed communities, can install solar panels with some limitations. These laws may allow homeowners to install solar systems, while others impose HOA control over solar system design and implementation. Generally, HOAs cannot demand homeowners to relocate or alter solar systems, unless the modification significantly reduces energy production or increases costs. However, enforcement of these laws may vary across states.

The NC Supreme Court Ruling - A Leap Forward

In early 2022, an important Supreme Court ruling in North Carolina supported Raleigh homeowners who installed rooftop solar systems on their homes, despite HOA opposition. The court ruling explicitly protects homeowners' rights to go solar, regardless of where they live within the state. However, the court of appeals decision still grants HOAs the authority to decide where solar installations are carried out on the homeowner's property.

What's in it for Homeowners in an HOA?

Over 26% of homes in North Carolina have HOA regulations, making this a significant demographic that can now benefit from solar energy without facing significant hurdles. With the new ruling, many previously deterred homeowners can now embrace renewable energy.

Seeking HOA Approval - Tips and Tricks

Build Networks: Reach out to neighbors and HOA board members to understand their stance on solar and gauge the likelihood of encountering opposition.
Petition the HOA: Discuss the benefits of solar, including improved property value and resilience during outages, to change their minds about restrictive covenants.
Study the Law: Familiarize yourself with solar access laws to navigate potential pushback from your HOA and gain a better understanding of your rights to install solar panels.
Consult a Solar Professional: Reach out to a trusted solar installer like 8MSolar for advice on navigating the HOA approval process and making the most of your solar investment.

Moving Forward - Advocating for Change

While the recent Supreme Court ruling is a promising step, some homeowners still advocate for more protections to ensure optimal solar panel placement and production. Possible improvements could include restricting HOAs' ability to dictate solar panel placement, particularly for street-facing solar installations, and establishing a minimum performance level to prevent HOAs from relocating solar panels to less-than-ideal locations.

House Bill 842 - A Potential Solution?

While House Bill 842 has not yet been enacted, it could protect homeowners' rights and prevent HOAs from dictating solar panel placement. Whether this bill is reintroduced or refilled in 2023, it would be a significant stride in empowering homeowners in HOA communities and promoting the adoption of solar.

Embrace Solar with 8MSolar

With the Supreme Court ruling, you now have the freedom to install a solar system on your property without fear of HOA intervention. Let 8MSolar guide you through the process, offering expert advice during every step, from design, installation, to regular maintenance. Our high-quality solar panels and battery storage systems make us a trusted partner for your renewable energy journey. We are certified NC solar installers, well-versed in solar technology and the ever-evolving regulations, ready to help you make the most of your solar investment.

Connect with us today to explore the possibilities of solar power for your home and embark on a greener, more cost-effective way of life.

By going solar, homeowners can reduce electricity costs and promote eco-friendly living, but restrictions from homeowners associations (HOAs) have historically been a challenge.
Solar access laws ensure that homeowners in HOA-governed communities can install solar systems in some ways, with HOAs having control over some aspects of design and implementation.
In North Carolina, an important Supreme Court ruling in early 2022 supports homeowners' rights to install rooftop solar systems, despite HOA opposition, but the court of appeals decision grants HOAs the authority to decide where solar installations are carried out on the homeowner's property.
Homeowners in HOA-governed communities can now benefit from renewable energy more easily due to this ruling, as over 26% of homes in North Carolina have HOA regulations.
When seeking HOA approval, building networks, petitioning the HOA, studying solar access laws, and consulting a solar professional can help navigate the approval process and make the most of a solar investment.
Some homeowners are advocating for more protections to ensure optimal solar panel placement and production, such as restricting HOA's ability to dictate solar panel placement and establishing a minimum performance level.
House Bill 842, which has not yet been enacted, could potentially protect homeowners' rights and prevent HOAs from dictating solar panel placement, empowering homeowners in HOA communities and promoting the adoption of solar energy.