The bill titled "An Act ensuring solar energy access" aims to amend Chapter 184 of the General Laws in Massachusetts by replacing section 23C with new provisions that enhance the rights of homeowners regarding the installation and use of solar energy systems. The bill defines key terms such as "association," "solar access," and "solar energy system," and establishes that any provisions in property ownership documents that attempt to forbid or unreasonably restrict solar energy installations will be deemed void.
Furthermore, the bill mandates that homeowners associations must review requests for solar access or installations within 60 days and provide written explanations for any restrictions imposed. It outlines what constitutes unreasonable restrictions, including cost increases exceeding 10% or $1,000, efficiency reductions over 10%, and significant limitations on solar access. Additionally, individuals who feel aggrieved by violations of this section are granted the right to pursue civil action for injunctive relief and damages, with the possibility of recovering legal costs if they prevail.