Page 29 - Ridgewood Cluster_FR.April2023

Solar Panels

• Solar Panels must be flushed-mounted (flat) on the roof with one side parallel to the roof eaves or peaks.
• All components of the solar panel system must be integrated into the design of the house.
• Solar panels and frames must be compatible with the colors and appearance of the roof.
• The configuration, total area, size, number and arrangement of the solar panels must be appropriate for the size
and shape of the roof face.
• The orientation of all solar panels must be the same (horizontal or vertical).
• All pipes, wires, support structures and control devices must be concealed.
• Solar panels must be set back no less than 18” from each edge of the roof.
• The preferred location for installation of the solar panels is the rear-facing roof, in a way that is least visible from
other lots and street views. However, solar panels are permitted on a roof that faces the street if an independent
solar panel design specialist (certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners and
licensed in Virginia) establishes that installation on the rear-facing roof:

1. Increases the cost of installation of the solar panels by five (5) percent over the projected cost of the
initially proposed installation or;
2. Reduces the energy production of the solar panels by ten (10) percent below the projected energy
production of the initially proposed installation. with the following stipulations:

• Solar panels are NOT permitted over the front door or the front porch.
• Elevated solar panels on roof and ground mounted panels are NOT permitted.
• Solar panels are NOT allowed on cluster common area or elements.
• The solar panel system must be certified by UL or a comparable nationally known entity. Homeowner is to
maintain proof and provide it upon request.
• Solar panel installation must be by a qualified, licensed experienced solar installer who provides the owner with a
final system test statement indicating that the system has been checked and is in working order.
• The homeowner must maintain solar panels to ensure proper appearance.
• (Street) Front-facing installation of solar panels are not the preferred location for the property and are subject to
DRB Panel approval. Any installation that has solar panels placed on the (street) front-facing must also submit
with a statement from an independent solar panel design specialist (certified by the North American Board of
Certified Energy Practitioners and licensed in Virginia) which establishes that installation on the rear-facing roof:
1. Increases the cost of installation of the solar panels by five (5) percent over the projected cost of the
initially proposed installation or;
2. Reduces the energy production of the solar panels by ten (10) percent below the projected energy
production of the initially proposed installation.

A DRB application must be submitted for approval, by the homeowner and must include the information listed
below: BOTH REAR AND (STREET) FRONT FACING SOLAR PANEL APPLICATIONS MUST
INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:

• Catalog or brochure showing the appearance of the solar equipment and complete specifications (dimensions,
colors, materials, etc.)
• A drawing showing how the solar panels or modules will be mounted or installed and any existing or proposed
structural screen.
• A description of any visible auxiliary equipment.
• A drawing to scale (plan view or elevation) or photograph showing the proposed location of roof-mounted
equipment.