What to know when adding solar panels to your home

Solar panels are increasing in popularity and can be a good way to reduce your carbon footprint and decrease your electric bill. Installing solar panels is not as simple as putting cells on a rooftop. Additional wiring will need to be installed, and panel placement is key to building an efficient system. Make sure you hire a professional solar panel installer to do the work and look for solar panel contractors that offer a strong warranty.

Before installing solar panels, remember to apply to the Architectural Standards Department using the online form at www.montgomeryvillage.com/pir. To ensure that solar panel installation is in harmony with the aesthetics of your home and community, solar panels should be installed flat to the roof, and the panels should all face the same direction to create clean lines. The conduit lines should be run along rooflines, downspouts and corner boards to conceal them as much as possible. They should be painted black when they run along the roof and the siding or trim color when they run against the house, depending on their location. It is strongly recommended that the solar panel utility box be installed on the rear of the property in an area that is not visible to ensure the impact is minimal for the community.

Note: If you are planning to replace the roof as well, remember to add that to your application for Solar Panels. There are many roof colors that have been discontinued and some of the new alternatives are not acceptable per community criteria and/or design.

We encourage residents to take advantage of all the benefits that solar panels provide. As always, if you have questions about your application for solar panels, reach out to the Architectural Standards Department for assistance This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 240-243-2364.