Bill > S1289

This bill aims to facilitate the installation of solar energy systems in historic districts in Massachusetts. The key provisions include: 1. Expanding the membership of historic district commissions to include a building contractor with at least 5 years of experience in the historical building trade and a solar energy systems industry representative. 2. Requiring historic district commissions to provide written notice of denial for solar energy system applications within 14 days, including the rationale for the denial and recommendations for improvements to the application. 3. Allowing applicants to secure a waiver from the public hearing requirement if they obtain written signatures from 5 property owners within a mile of the proposed installation. 4. Directing the establishment of a statewide commission to design, standardize, and draft suggested guidelines for compliant solar energy system installations within historic districts. 5. Explicitly allowing the integration and installation of solar panels and other renewable energy systems in the Old Kings Highway Historic District and the Old Historic Districts of Nantucket, provided the installation minimizes visual impact. The overall aim is to balance the preservation of historic character with the increasing adoption of renewable energy technologies in these areas.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/193/S1289