CAI-NJ June 2019 (w)

trical codes now include provisions to address firefighter safety such as: • Certification processes for manufacturers to develop safer products • Minimum setback areas to provide ample space on the roof for firefighters • Rapid shutdown requirements for solar PV projects Even with the increase in these protective measures, community associations must weigh the Pros of cost savings against the Cons associated with solar panels, including, but not limited to, the risk of fire. For townhome and condo- minium owners who want to purchase a renewable form of energy to reduce the effect of greenhouse gases on the environment, there are alternatives beyond rooftop solar arrays. Third-party energy providers purchase “green energy” which they make available for purchase to individual consumers who want to “go green” but cannot or do not want panels on their rooftop. Community Solar Garden initiatives, such as the one just approved in New Jersey,

allow apartment, condominium, townhome, and business owners to purchase renewable solar electricity that is gen- erated on large rooftops and ground mounts within their communities. Although these alternatives do not provide the substantial cost savings that a solar array directly on your rooftop offers, these alternative strategies do mitigate many of the associated risks. Find the project model that works best for you. Electricity usage and set-up in multi-family buildings can vary widely. In some buildings, individual owners pay electric bills, while in others, those costs are built into community asso- ciation fees. Additionally, some properties have fees or other funds that can be allocated to building upgrades and improvements. It is important to think about all factors when considering solar. There is no one best way to go solar. But in each case, the right decision-makers will need to carefully consider what will work best for each building. n Information provided by: Kevin Dunshee National Sales Manager for Solar Landscape Asbury NJ Solar United Neighbors ,Washington DC Dan Fink, Fire Rescue 1 . com

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