Mass. Legislature Considers Mandating Solar Roof Systems on New Homes and Buildings

Massachusetts lawmakers are considering bills that would require the installation of solar power systems on all new homes and buildings. If the bills are enacted, Massachusetts would become the second state to impose such a requirement. In 2018, California passed a law that mandates the installation of solar power on new homes and buildings. It goes into effect on Jan. 1, 2020.

Modifications to Massachusetts’ building code would be declared within one year from the bill’s passing. These amendments would establish standards to accommodate solar energy systems, including static load roof strength and non-solar rooftop equipment placement. The proposed legislation would also allow the state to consider code changes including roof orientation and angle, roof types compatible with a solar installation that needs little to no roof penetrations, and a conduit for wiring from roof to electric panels.

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