VKCA SOLAR INSTALLATION POLICY
VKCA hOMEOWNERS: If you are thinking of installation solar on your residence, please see the VKCA solar policy below. Solar is permitted but needs to be cleared through the VKCA Board just as any other outside modification to your home. THANK YOU FOR YOUR COOPERATION IN THIS MATTER.
Virginia Knolls (VKCA) Solar Panel Policy
Solar panels are allowed, but design plans showing the location and placement of the panels must be reviewed and approved by the VKCA Board before installation can begin. More details below:
VKCA encourages homeowners to explore all aspects of solar panel installation and maintenance. While the advantages of solar energy production are well known, there are other factors to be aware of. See summaries of advantages and disadvantages on InterNACHI website for certified home inspectors here:
https://www.nachi.org/advantages-solar-energy.htm
https://www.nachi.org/disadvantages-solar-energy.htm
Information is the homeowner's best protection in taking this step. An owner is installing panels on private property. Granting certification of approval for a solar panel installation in VKCA in no way confers any liability or responsibility of VKCA for the function, maintenance, or disposal of solar panels.
In accordance with what is permitted under local and state law: VKCA requires companies to abide by county code governing installation of solar panels and to adopt the following policies, including those that were recommended by the Maryland, DC, and Virginia Solar Energy Industry Association, now called CHESSA, Chesapeake Solar and Storage Association.
- Installation is limited to the owner's private property. No installation by a private homeowner is permitted on VKCA common grounds.
- Limit size to within current net metering code limitations
- Rear installation unless this placement interferes with collection of energy
- Installation to be parallel to roof line, and not protruding over the apex of the roof line
- Wiring and components are to be concealed as much as possible or encased in a conduit which color shall match the surface to which it is attached.
- Design must be in compliance with current building code and installer and owner must comply with Loudoun County permitting and inspection process for solar panels: https://www.loudoun.gov/solarpermits
- Ground mount systems are allowed only in the event that there is sufficient space, and property and building are such that a ground mount system is required for collection of energy. Ground-mounted systems cannot exceed the height limit for fences (6 feet).
- For rooftop systems installed on flat roofs a low profile ballasted array is preferred, provided structural limitations of the roof will allow. If the roof structure will not support a low profile ballasted system, a penetrating racking system is acceptable
To ensure prompt delivery, please submit plans showing the placement and design of the proposed solar installation to VKCA at vkca2021@gmail.com and reeddcreed1@aol.com. The plan will be reviewed by the architectural review committee and approved or denied when the VKCA Board votes on the plan. If the design is approved, the Board requires notification of when the installation is complete so that it may be reviewed for compliance with plan provided to the committee.