Joey – Indianapolis, IN
If your HOA denies you, don’t give up!
Joey – Indianapolis, IN
Why did you decide to go solar?
I wanted to save money! In 2016, I was building our dream home and by being there long-term, the decision to go solar was a no-brainer.
What was the process like for you? Did anything surprise you, or were there challenges you had to overcome?
I experienced the most obstructive, resistant HOA in the history of all HOAs. It was so bad that my saga of a story led to the passage of Indiana’s HOA Solar law in 2022. It took 6 years but we got it done! The law’s text is based directly on my situation, namely that if you petition your neighbors and obtain support, the HOA Board cannot deny you (again) from installing solar.
Have any of your habits changed since going solar?
Yes! I use my heat pump now exclusively in the winter. I used to use my gas furnace but now that I produce more kWhs since I have the optimal installation, I use electric heat. This recently resulted in a $14 drop in my monthly budgeted water/sewer/gas utility payment!
Have you seen electricity savings since going solar?
Yes, absolutely. While I’ve had 3 installations, 2 roof repairs as a result, and 2 sets of lawyer fees – all due to my HOA’s obstruction, I’m finally digging out of the hole. And when my electric utility raises the variable kWh rate, that makes me very happy because it accelerates my payback period. All expenses included (installations, roof repairs, lawyers), I’m currently just over $30,000 in the hole so I estimate it will take me at least another 15 years to recoup my payback, assuming the electric utility doesn’t raise rates again.
Have you been involved in any solar advocacy since becoming a solar owner?
I help AES Indiana solar customers with their electric bill reconciliations and I volunteer for all sorts of Solar United Neighbors activities, including the Indiana Solar Action Team, Indianapolis Solar Co-op, and various Solar Congresses.
What advice would you give to someone who is considering going solar?
If your HOA denies you, don’t give up! Call me and we’ll wear them down into acceptance. Solar is the most obvious choice. It’s so wonderful being away from home at the office or on vacation and knowing when it’s sunny back home in Indiana, my house is making me money! Going solar is absolutely a no-brainer and everyone should do it.
What advice would you give to someone who is considering going solar?
My dream is to see solar panels on every single roof and parking structure in the universe. With Solar United Neighbors’s help, we can make it happen.