The Columbus Historic Resources Commission on Nov. 20 continued consideration of a certificate of appropriateness for rooftop solar at 615 South Champion Avenue, asking the applicant to provide clearer street-view photographs and engineering verification of whether panels can be shifted out of public view.

Staff recommended approving the application with the condition that panels visible from the public right-of-way be removed or relocated, citing City Code 3116.11 standards for alterations. The applicant, who the record identifies by surname as Tate, described system constraints: panels are racked and must align in rows, and some proposed modules are essential to meet production targets. He told the commission the modules are “just black on black,” noting the color and that canopy shading limits rear-yard freestanding alternatives.

Commissioners pressed technical and visual questions. A window-and-roof technical reviewer explained the racking and truss constraints that limit how far panels can be slid back. Commissioners asked for scaled roof plans, photos from across the street and, if needed, a site visit to determine whether the two panels on the most-visible roof plane can be shifted behind the chimney or otherwise masked. One commissioner noted the panels’ estimated dimensions (roughly 3½–4 by 6 feet) and asked the applicant to confirm exact sizes and attachment points.

The applicant said sliding some panels back might be possible but that moving or removing others would reduce production and increase the homeowner’s electricity costs. Staff reiterated the commission’s prior guidance that freestanding rear-yard racks are a preferable treatment where feasible, and that visibility from the right-of-way is the primary preservation concern.

After discussion, a motion to continue the application passed. The commission asked the applicant to return with: high-resolution distance photos showing views from the street and sidewalk, a revised roof plan or engineering note confirming whether specific panels can be relocated without compromising racking and production, and alternative placement studies (including whether any rear freestanding structure is feasible).