Council Might Ease Solar Power Rule

Home builders soon may have a choice whether to use solar energy systems on new houses.

The City Council tonight will consider revising an ordinance to make it voluntary, instead of mandatory, to install solar panels and solar heaters on new homes.

The city’s solar energy design ordinance was adopted in 1982 in response to concerns about the depletion of natural resources. Since then, developers have been required to install solar energy equipment if they don’t orientate the homes to take advantage of natural sunlight.

Changes to the ordinance are proposed because new technology, including high-efficiency water heaters and low-flow shower heads, has resulted in less hot water usage, planning officials said.

If the council approves the voluntary measures, developers still would be encouraged to install solar water heating systems or leave new homes with the capacity for solar equipment.

The meeting begins at 7:30 p.m. in the council chambers, 401 E. Chapman Ave. Information: (714) 993-8231.