solar energy

The town's subdivision regulations provide definitions for "solar collector" and "solar energy system" (Sec. 74-1). Subdivision review criteria address solar energy, noting that proposed public sites and open spaces should be located to improve direct access to sunlight for solar energy systems by providing a buffer from shadows (Sec. 74-269.b); that lot size and orientation should be designed to maximize use of direct sunlight for solar energy systems, with lot lines running due north and south and parking areas located where possible to buffer solar energy systems from shading (Sec. 74-273.a, b, d); and that shadow projections be reviewed when siting buildings to avoid blocking solar access (Sec. 74-276). Requirements for PUDs and cluster development also address solar, noting that buildings should be oriented with respect to solar access, height should be limited for solar access purposes, and solar access should take precedence when siting buildings (Sec. 74-278.b.8, 9; Sec. 74-278.d.2). Subdivision plans should show the location of proposed solar collectors (Sec. 74-153.14; Sec. 74-207.b.25). Streets should be designed to run on east-west axes to maximize access to direct sunlight for solar energy systems (Sec. 74-309.d). In the town's zoning code, the standards for the Planned Mixed Use Development District note that additional landscaping and setbacks may be required by the planning board for several reasons, including maintaining solar access (Sec. 78-1027.i)