A Solar Eyesore

Don't you dare use this for energy in South Shore Heights.

As someone who is very interested in so-called "alternative" energy sources and green power sources, I was naturally curious when I saw that World-Herald columnist tackled an issue related to solar power.  To those who may have missed it, Omaha resident Tim Adams recently installed $40,000 worth of solar panels to his home.  Not only is he entirely powering his home with these panels (and it appears to be a rather large home compared to the average home), but he is able to sell back power that he doesn't use to OPPD.  Usually, something like this would be a feel good story and a bit of light news about emerging technologies that are slowly but surely changing the way we live our lives.

Unfortunately, the homeowner's board in his neighborhood sees this as an eyesore and is telling him to remove the panels or be sued.  Long story short, they picked on the wrong guy and he has decided to take his fight public by purchasing two billboards at a total cost of $15,000 protesting their decision (hey, it beats paying for a "World Ends on May 21st" billboard).  Robert Nelson addressed this much better than I could, but long story short I wanted to use my minor forum to say that I support Mr. Adams fully in his endeavor.

I completely understand the point of having covenants and holding homes in a neighborhood to a standard.  I've seen first-hand how one bad home can bring a neighborhood down.  And I understand that many neighborhoods want to ensure that all of the homes remain some shade of beige.  But surely they can see this is beyond ridiculous.  First off, I doubt they have a leg to stand on as in no way does this lower the value of the home- in fact, it does exactly the opposite (link).  Secondly, we need people who can afford to purchase solar panels to do so and install them.  The technology is getting very close to the point where many Americans can see short-term savings- the more people buy them, the quicker the price will go down.  And lastly, the look of the house is not compromised- I mean, we're talking about covering up roof shingles- hardly the best thing on the house.  Looking at the photo attached to the story, everything was installed very neatly and professionally.  It's not like there are loose wires hanging everywhere. 

Going forward, I think the neighborhood would be better off in making sure everyone gets their Christmas lights down by the first of July instead of bothering someone who is trying to live a sustainable lifestyle.  I would like to thank Mr. Adams for his efforts, and Mr. Nelson for bringing his story to our attention, and I wish Mr. Adams luck in his struggle with the South Shore Heights homeowner's board.