Time to Read: 5 minutes
Date: April 13, 2023
While you’re on your next walk through your neighborhood, if you look up at the houses you are likely to see solar panels sparkling in the sun. Solar panels seem to be springing up everywhere here in Texas! This is especially true in Texas neighborhoods. But what if your HOA (Homeowners Association) seems to have reservations about your plans to install a solar power system? Can HOA’s ban solar panels or have any restrictions on them? And what about home standby generators? In this article, we’re going to be taking a look at how HOAs interact with solar power systems and backup generators in Texas.
Do HOAs Ban Solar Panels?
Let’s start off with the direct answer to this question: in the state of Texas, HOAs are not allowed to keep someone from installing solar panels. By law, they are not legally allowed to keep residents from installing them on their property. They can, however, place restrictions on them such as…
- How they are installed
- Where on their property they are installed
- Panels cannot extend past the roofline
- Panels must conform to slope of the roof
On top of these restrictions, the same law (House bill 362) that keeps HOAs from banning solar panels forbids the installation of a solar powered system if:
- The solar panels or solar power system is a threat to public health and/or safety
- It breaks a law
- Voids material warranties
- The installation is a ground mounted system on the owner’s property (patio or yard) that rises above their fenceline
These restrictions usually have more to do with aesthetics of the rooftop panels than anything else. Residents all over Texas are well within their rights to install a solar powered system.
This actually ties into a large issue in the solar industry itself. Substandard solar panel installations that ignore the design elements necessary for efficient solar-powered systems have been a problem in the industry for years. The history of the solar industry is full of examples of this. For instance, some solar companies have designed and installed solar power systems for customers with no regard for backload calculations. Some have tried (and still try) to install as many panels as possible. In other examples, solar companies installed cookie-cutter systems that aren’t tailor-made to give the customer the electricity that they need. These examples are all issues when it comes to installing a solar power system that aligns with the laws in place for solar panel installations in residential areas.
On top of that, some companies have installed solar panels without full warranty and systems that diminish in rate of return. Some also haven’t included backup power plans for power outages. This last point is particularly important, as having solar panels alone is not enough to keep your home running when a power outage occurs. Some solar installers also don’t correctly size the equipment installed in the design. This leads to customers getting solar power systems that don’t power the things that the customer was promised.
What about Backup Generators?
HOAs in the state of Texas also can’t legally keep you from installing a backup generator. This means that you are able to install a home standby generator. As long as your generator complies with applicable safety codes, you can install one. Your HOA can place restrictions on your solar panels. An HOA can include screening requirements and panel location in their list of restrictions.
This is great news for anyone looking to get a reliable and stable way to have electricity in the event of a power outage. This is especially true for outages that happen during winter storms or long lasting heat waves.
IES Texas Solar Takes Care of it all For You
When it comes to making sure that you get the best system for your needs while also complying with city codes and permits, IES Texas Solar does it all. Our experts handle all the paperwork needed to get you the perfect solar power system for you. This means you can spend less time worrying over getting the right paperwork for your system and more time enjoying life as a new member of our solar community.
Now That You Know the Answer, Go With the Best in the Business. Your HOA Can’t Stand in Your Way. Make the Switch to Solar Today!
With a solar power system and backup batteries, you can say goodbye to high electric bills and hello to long-term energy stability. Backup batteries also allow you to save even more money on your electrical costs with net metering. On top of that, installing a Generac home standby generator can keep your power running in your home in any situation! When it comes to going solar your HOA can’t stand in your way, so why not go solar today? Reach out to a solar consultant and begin your solar journey!
We have made it our mission to be a source of truth in renewable energy. Our team believes that accurate solar and backup power education is the foundation for making the best decision when choosing a system that fits your needs.
If you are considering installing a backup generator or switching to solar for your home or business, reach out to us by going to our website, iestxsolar.com, or by giving us a call at (855) 447-6527.
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