Why are aesthetics more important than conserving Energy?

Question

Many HOA (Home Owner Associations) do not allow solar panals to be placed on homes.

I was wondering why we should care more of how something looks rather then realize we should do our best in conserving energy. If we are able to afford the high cost and want to do this, any HOA should allow it.

Answer 1

It's hard to rally a brilliant idea to narrow minded, ignorant people. I have these snubbish neighbors who do not care about a lot of things except for their gas guzzling SUV's and green lawn which takes up a lot of water. It is important to have a HOA meeting and bring these ideas to light. If they are still resistant then it is better to move in a more progressive and open minded neighborhood or city or state for that matter.

Answer 2

Hello dear!

I suppose that is is due to the power of the petroleum companies and the strings they have attached to the governments and other organizations!

Answer 3

There are places where the state or local laws do not allow HOAs to prohibit solar panels. I have heard California has such a law state wide, but don't know that for sure. Check with a lawyer (or your local solar panel dealer) to see if such laws exist in your location, and if they do not, lobby your state or city government to enact such a law.

Answer 4

This stuns me as well.

The first battle that has to be won in the forward efforts of conservation and environmentalism is education.  Never underestimate the value of a single voice.

The more we can bring people to appreciate the environmental, economic and social benefits from the tremendous benefits of solar power, the better off we will all be in the long run.  Sadly this is not an overnight task.

There are a couple hundered methods to help over come some of the obstacles to the resistance of solar panel usage -- these include addressing your HOA directly; petitions; letters and editorials to local media; engaging area conservation groups to aid in your cause; etc.

Good luck.  Keep us posted on how things turn out.

Answer 5

People generally want conformity in associations.

FYI, Solara may be one of the first US solar apartment complexes in the country.  An interesting thing, I saw a number of other pictures where all top surfaces had panels.

http://www.nctimes.com/articles/2007/06/...