Committee approves 31-panel rooftop solar installation at 20 West Road

The Orleans Architecture Review Committee voted to approve a proposal from My Generation Energy to install 31 all-black solar panels on the roof of 20 West Road.

Abe Boyle, a construction supervisor representing My Generation Energy, told the committee the plan targets roof sections with the best solar exposure and includes internal conduit routing where attic space allows. "We are looking at installing 31 panels of the all black variety at 20 West Road," Boyle said, and provided street and front-facing photos to illustrate the layout.

Members asked why panels could not be installed on the building's flat roof; Boyle said obstructions, including AC units and an external buttress, and shading made a flat array impractical without added structural work or ballast. He also said rear-facing roof sections face north and are shaded by trees, reducing production potential.

On production and equipment, Boyle said the proposal uses 440-watt panels with typical efficiencies "around that 21, 22%" and emphasized the need to match panels with appropriate inverters. He said the system is expected to offset part of the building's electrical load but is "not a 100% coverage." The committee discussed conduit visibility and aesthetic choices; Boyle confirmed the panels are "black on black on black" and said attic access would let the installer hide conduit runs.

Richard Morinzell moved to approve the installation as submitted; the motion was seconded and the committee approved the measure by voice vote. At least two members vocalized "aye" during the vote. After approval, the chair asked Boyle to sign paperwork and said forms would be available for pickup the following day.

The committee's approval covers the site plan and equipment described at the meeting; any subsequent changes to panel count, placement or equipment specifications would require additional review.