The Sunny Side of HOAs: Top Tips for Going Solar
Homeowners Associations (HOAs) exist to maintain the uniformity and beauty of a neighborhood. However, these associations may disallow the installation of solar panels on a home, including in Missouri and Kansas, due to aesthetic preferences. The laws around the installation of solar panels have changed recently in Missouri but are still not in place in Kansas.
Missouri recently passed Senate Bill 820, which prevents HOAs from banning solar panels. While this is great news, they do allow some restrictions from an HOA where reasonable guidelines can be established regarding their placement. This article will help explain some of the nuances of working with an HOA for solar, and some tips to help have a better interaction for working with your HOA when you are considering going solar. Even though there’s a state law in Missouri that prevent’s HOA’s from banning solar — according to this one KMBC story some HOA’s are still trying. So if your in Kansas or have a difficult HOA Helio GreenTech has put together a guide to help shine a light on solar for HOAs.
Empowering Your HOA with Solar: A Guide to Going Green
The recently passed bill in Missouri, CCS/HCS/SB 820, has a provision that allows rural electric cooperatives to receive funds from the Missouri Disaster Fund. The bill also establishes a Task Force on Distributed Energy Resources and Net Metering. This Task Force will conduct hearings and research related to net metering and compile a report for the General Assembly by December 31, 2023. The bill also modifies the provisions related to utilities, sales tax exemption for solar energy systems, and restrictive covenants related to renewable energy. For homeowners thinking about going solar in Missouri, the bill specifies that no deed restriction, covenant, or similar binding agreement running with the land shall limit or prohibit the installation of solar panels or solar collectors, as defined in the act, on the rooftop of any property or structure. Working with Helio GreenTech, a solar energy provider, has numerous benefits, including high-quality equipment, competitive pricing, and a team of experienced professionals to ensure the installation process is smooth and hassle-free. Some of the largest cities in the Kansas City MO area for SEO include Kansas City, Overland Park, and Olathe.
Why don’t some HOA’s want solar?
The resistance by HOAs to solar panels is often due to aesthetic preferences; however, homeowners associations should recognize that solar panels increase the value of homes and communities. Research indicates that homeowners are willing to pay a premium for homes equipped with solar energy systems. Here’s a great resource if you are looking for some solar facts specific to Missouri or Kansas that can be useful when working with an HOA
Fortunately, innovative solar panel solutions, like Helio GreenTech, can make solar panels aesthetically pleasing. Using Tier-One, all black panels, like a VSUN 400 or similar quality panel helps blend into the roofing of a house and can even enhance the aesthetic appeal of a home.
If you are struggling with an HOA over solar panel installation, you should try to make them aesthetically pleasing and highlight the benefits they bring to the community. Helio GreenTech offers a solution to the resistance of HOAs to solar panels.
Top 6 tips for working with an HOA when considering going solar, based on our discussion:
Partner with a solar provider like Helio GreenTech:
One of the biggest challenges of convincing an HOA to adopt solar is making a convincing case for the benefits of solar energy. Helio GreenTech can help make that case by doing the heavy lifting of researching and preparing information about the benefits of solar energy. They can provide an analysis of the potential savings and a customized plan that is tailored to the specific needs of the HOA. With their expertise, they can help make the case for why solar is good for the HOA and the community.
Understand the HOA's governing documents:
Before proposing a solar project, it is important to understand the governing documents of the HOA, such as the bylaws and covenants. These documents may have specific guidelines for the installation of solar panels or requirements for obtaining approval from the HOA board. It is important to follow these guidelines to avoid any potential conflicts with the HOA.
Assess the suitability of the property for solar:
Not all properties are equally suitable for solar panels. Some properties may not receive enough sunlight, while others may have structural limitations that prevent the installation of panels. It is important to assess the property's suitability for solar before proposing a project to the HOA.
Develop a plan for financing the solar project:
Solar projects can be expensive, and it is important to have a plan for financing the project. There are several financing options available, including leases, power purchase agreements, and loans. It is important to research the options and determine the best financing plan for the HOA.
Educate the community on the benefits of solar energy:
At Helio GreenTech we take an educational approach to selling solar. We want you to be in the drivers seat for your solar system. So our energy consultants help provide you with accurate information to make an educated decision to see if solar will be a good fit for you. We are also happy to help educating the community on the benefits of solar energy can help build support for the project. It is important to communicate the potential cost savings and environmental benefits of solar energy to the community.
Work collaboratively with the HOA board:
Ultimately, the decision to allow solar may be made by the HOA board, design review board often times called a DRB. It is important to work collaboratively with the board and address any concerns or questions they may have about the project. Helio GreenTech has had a great track record over the years working with communities and HOA’s to facilitate a conversation and dialogue about the benefits to the homeowner and community to allow a home owner to go solar. By working together, the HOA and the solar provider can create a customized plan that meets the needs of the community.
At Helio Greentech, we understand the value of solar panels, and we want to help homeowners overcome the challenges they face in installing them. We believe that HOAs can benefit from encouraging the installation of solar panels, which not only helps to protect the environment but also increases the value of the properties in their communities. Our mission is to make solar panels more accessible and attractive for all homeowners, including those living in communities governed by HOAs.
Solar energy is becoming an increasingly popular option for homeowners in Missouri, and for good reason. Solar panels provide a renewable energy source that can help homeowners save money on their utility bills, reduce their carbon footprint, and increase the value of their property. With recent legislation in Missouri, it's now easier than ever for homeowners to go solar and take advantage of the many benefits of this clean energy source.
How Helio GreenTech Can Be a Resource To You and Your Community When Working With an HOA:
One of the best ways for homeowners to get started with solar is to work with a reputable solar company like Helio GreenTech. Helio GreenTech is a Missouri-based solar company that specializes in designing and installing solar energy systems for homeowners. The company is committed to providing high-quality, affordable solar solutions that are tailored to meet the specific needs of each homeowner.
One of the biggest benefits of working with Helio GreenTech is that the company offers a range of financing options that make it easy for homeowners to afford solar energy systems. Helio GreenTech offers a variety of financing options, including solar loans, leases, and power purchase agreements (PPAs). These financing options can help homeowners save money on their utility bills from day one, and they often require little or no upfront cost.
Another benefit of working with Helio GreenTech is that the company offers a comprehensive warranty on all of its solar energy systems. This warranty covers both the solar panels and the installation work, ensuring that homeowners can enjoy the benefits of their solar energy system for years to come. Helio GreenTech also offers ongoing maintenance and support to ensure that homeowners get the most out of their solar energy system over time.
In addition to these benefits, homeowners who work with Helio GreenTech can also take advantage of the many incentives and tax credits available for solar energy in Missouri. For example, homeowners who install solar energy systems can receive a 26% federal tax credit, as well as a variety of state and local incentives. These incentives can help homeowners save thousands of dollars on the cost of their solar energy system, making it an even more affordable option.
An illuminating Case for Solar and Why Solar is Good For HOA’s
Reduce Energy Costs One of the biggest benefits of solar panels is the ability to save money on energy bills. This is especially true in states like Kansas and Missouri, where the cost of electricity is higher than the national average. By installing solar panels, homeowners can generate their own electricity and reduce their dependence on the grid. This not only saves them money but also reduces the demand for fossil fuels. But this isn’t the only reason HOA’s should see the value in solar. Here’s a quick list of some of the benefits of solar than an HOA should appreciate.
Increase Property Values
Studies have shown that homes with solar panels sell for more than homes without them. This is because buyers are willing to pay a premium for homes that have lower energy costs and are more environmentally friendly. By allowing homeowners to install solar panels, HOAs can help increase the value of their community and attract more buyers. Sources like Zillow have long shown the increased property values of solar in the Kansas City area, both in Kansas and in Missouri.
Promote Sustainability
HOAs have a responsibility to promote sustainable practices within their communities. Allowing solar panels is one way to do this. Solar energy is a clean and renewable source of energy that does not produce any greenhouse gas emissions. By promoting solar energy, HOAs can help reduce their community's carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future. According to the National Association of Realtors “Solar helps future-proof your community.”
Enhance Community Image
Communities that embrace sustainable practices are seen as more desirable places to live. By allowing solar panels, HOAs can enhance their community's image and attract residents who are committed to sustainability. This can help increase property values and create a more vibrant and engaged community.
Encourage Innovation
Allowing solar panels is an opportunity for HOAs to encourage innovation and creativity within their communities. Homeowners who install solar panels are often pioneers in their neighborhoods, and their installations can inspire others to follow suit. By allowing solar panels, HOAs can encourage a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship within their communities.
Working with Helio GreenTech If your HOA is considering allowing solar panels, working with Helio GreenTech can make the process much easier. Helio GreenTech is a solar consulting and installation company that specializes in working with HOAs. They can help your HOA prepare information and make a case for why solar is good for your community. They can also help homeowners navigate the complex permitting and installation process.
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Overall, the recent legislation in Missouri and the many benefits of solar energy make it a great time for homeowners to consider going solar. By working with a reputable solar company like Helio GreenTech, homeowners can take advantage of the many benefits of solar energy while enjoying affordable financing options, comprehensive warranties, and ongoing support. With the right solar energy system in place, homeowners can save money on their utility bills, reduce their carbon footprint, and increase the value of their property for years to come.
