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Contractor and homeowner say city inspections delayed battery, solar install; staff to review
Summary
A homeowner and contractor said city building-inspection staff are applying outdated interpretations to modern solar-battery systems, increasing costs and delays; council said staff will follow up.
Public commenters on Oct. 7 told the council that modern solar and battery installations are being held up by local building inspection interpretations that do not reflect current UL-listed equipment and manufacturer guidance.
Homeowner Rachelle Ricker and electrician Noel Alonzo said an installed bifacial-panel pergola and integrated battery system were rejected by inspectors who requested components or wiring changes that the manufacturer does not recommend and that may void warranties. Alonzo said the batteries have built-in, UL-tested breakers and that city staff should review manufacturer documentation and UL listings when approving installations.
Council members acknowledged the technical nature of the complaint and asked staff to review the matter. The mayor and council said they would ask staff to research standards and training for inspectors and follow up with the homeowner and contractor.
No formal action was taken at the meeting; staff said they would respond to the commenters after reviewing relevant codes and manufacturer documentation.
