A new law in Connecticut prohibits common interest communities from adopting or enforcing rules that would prevent any unit owner from installing a solar generating system on their roof. The law, which is part of the state’s Clean Air Act, also includes so-called “right-to-charge” provisions, outlining the rights of condo owners and renters to install electric charging equipment in a garage or dedicated parking space.
Condominiums are exempt from the rooftop solar provision. Previously, Connecticut was the only New England state without some sort of law restricting homeowners’ associations from banning rooftop solar.
The new law has been in the works for several years, and many communities have been preparing for it. The law allows associations to adopt rules governing the size and manner of installing rooftop solar, as well as the unit owner’s responsibilities for upkeep and maintenance. Associations are also allowed to establish prohibitions on any unit owner installing solar on shared common elements of the community.
The law is likely to have a significant impact on Connecticut’s solar industry. The state has set a goal of generating 100% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2050, and rooftop solar is expected to play a major role in meeting that goal. The new law will make it easier for homeowners to install solar panels, which could help to boost the state’s solar industry.
While communities that are members of the Community Associations Institute likely know about the new law, those that aren’t connected very likely do not. It is important for all homeowners to be aware of the law so that they can make informed decisions about whether to install solar panels.
Here are some additional details about the law:
- The law went into effect on January 1, 2023.
- The law applies to all common interest communities in Connecticut, including condominiums, cooperatives, and homeowners’ associations.
- The law prohibits common interest communities from adopting or enforcing rules that would prevent any unit owner from installing a solar generating system on their roof.
- The law also includes so-called “right-to-charge” provisions, outlining the rights of condo owners and renters to install electric charging equipment in a garage or dedicated parking space.
- Condominiums are exempt from the rooftop solar provision.
- The law is likely to have a significant impact on Connecticut’s solar industry.
- Homeowners should be aware of the law so that they can make informed decisions about whether to install solar panels.
