Tacoma Building Board reviews solar panel placements for South Elevation designs

The Nantucket Historic District Commission meeting on April 15, 2025, focused heavily on the design and placement of solar panels on the new Tacoma A building. The discussion revealed a strong emphasis on aesthetics and visibility, particularly concerning how the panels would impact the surrounding historic landscape.

Commission members scrutinized the proposed solar panel placements, especially on the south elevation facing the parking lot. Concerns were raised about the visibility of panels on lower-level roofs, with some members advocating for their relocation to less visible areas. "I would love to see the lower planes move up," one member stated, highlighting the desire for a more visually appealing design.

The board ultimately decided to hold the proposal for revisions, allowing the design team to address concerns about the solar panel placements. "You guys have done very well," one member remarked, acknowledging the effort put into the design process thus far. The decision to hold for revisions reflects the commission's commitment to maintaining Nantucket's historic character while accommodating modern energy solutions.

As the meeting concluded, members expressed appreciation for the collaborative effort and the complexity of the project, indicating a positive outlook for future discussions. The next steps will involve refining the design to ensure it aligns with both aesthetic standards and functional needs.