Before installing a solar system or solar product of any kind there are steps that need to be followed to receive approval for installation.
IMPORTANT: Please read the information below which will allow you to begin the process. If you have questions, please send them to: contactus@williamsburgvillage.net and include a telephone number where we can reach you.
You will need to submit an Architectural Request Form – Solar which is found at the bottom of this page.
Considerations:
If you are thinking about installing a solar system on your home, several key factors warrant careful consideration. Firstly, a thorough site assessment is crucial, evaluating aspects like roof orientation, tilt, and potential shading from obstructions like trees or buildings to ensure optimal solar panel positioning for maximum sunlight exposure. Secondly, assessing your energy needs helps determine the appropriate system size to offset your electricity consumption and potentially eliminate bills. Thirdly, understanding local permitting and regulations is essential for ensuring a legal and safe installation, including zoning, and building codes. Finally, consider maintenance requirements and the long-term costs and timeline involved, including installation expenses and the potential impact of factors like weather conditions on the process. While the initial investment can be significant, the time involved to realize a return on investment (payback period) typically falls between 7 and 10 years, though this can vary considerably based on location, incentives, and energy consumption.
- We strongly suggest you get more than one quote to have a basis for comparison.
- We strongly suggest you do your own research and be aware certain inducements such as tax credits can and are changing. Consult with your legal and tax professionals to get the most current information.
- Consider the time it will take to see a return on your investment, factoring in your current age and any effect solar panels might have on the resale value of your home.
- You should also factor in City of Bloomington permit costs. See Useful Links below.
- Be aware that recently there have been several salespeople knocking on doors in Williamsburg that have made unrealistic and dishonest claims about solar. Find a reputable licensed dealer.
Williamsburg Village Solar Policy:
Pursuant to Minnesota Statute 500.216, the Association is authorized by Minnesota law to set certain conditions on an Owner’s right to install a solar energy system on their dwelling. The Williamsburg Village Solar Policy has been developed to ensure residents considering solar installation submit all necessary/required documentation regarding system design, contractor licensing, insurance, long term maintenance, interconnection, indemnification and more. Submission of these documents combined with permitting requirements by the City of Bloomington constitute the requirements of the Solar Policy.
- A list of required submissions can be found on the Architectural Request Form.
- The Association is not qualified to assess or determine the effectiveness of a solar systems design or the quality of equipment a contractor is providing.
- Approval of an architectural request to install a solar product or system is in no way an endorsement of the product(s) or contractor by the Williamsburg Village Homeowners Association, Inc.
Useful Links:
- City of Bloomington Solar Check List – This site contains a list of documents, fees and inspections the City of Bloomington will require after your application has been approved by the Williamsburg Village Homeowners Association, Inc. https://www.bloomingtonmn.gov/plan/solar-checklist
Instructions:
Architectural Request Form – Solar
- Click on the link above to complete the Architectural Request Form – Solar online.
- Complete Section 1 – Property Owner Information and Section.
- Complete Section 2 – You will find a list of documents you or your proposed contractor will need to provide. There will also be other information requested.
- NOTE: YOU WILL NEED TO GATHER SEVERAL DOCUMENTS TO COMPLETE YOUR SUBMISSION. PLEASE SUBMIT ALL DOCUMENTS AT ONE TIME. PARTIAL SUBMISSIONS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED.
- To submit any documents or attachments, drag and drop them in the box provided in Section 2 – File Upload box on the Form.
- Do not fill out Section 3 – Approval.
- When you have completed the application, Click the Submit button.
- You will receive an email acknowledging receipt of your application, including a pdf copy of your submission.