Environment

Solar Panels Beat Redwoods in CA Legal Dispute

by Jordan Yerman | February 22, 2008 at 02:36 pm

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After more than half a decade of legal battles, one California couple must remove their redwood trees so that their neighbor's solar panels will not be obstructed. I was a California resident for more than half my life, and I had no idea that there was any such thing as the Solar Shade Control Act.

Experts say such clashes could become more common as California promotes renewable energy and solar systems become more popular.

"Five or ten years ago, you wouldn't have seen this case because there weren't that many systems around," said Frank Schiavo, a retired environmental-studies professor at San Jose State University. "I can almost guarantee there are going to be more conflicts."

The redwood is California's state tree-- I didn't think you could legally cut them down.

(The footage to the right is for illustration purposes only, and does not depict the panels or trees in question)

2 See all footage | View Slideshow

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rick-o

at 08:47 on March 6th, 2008

"The redwood is California's state tree-- I didn't think you could legally cut them down."

Where do you think that the redwood lumber comes from that people use to build decks etc. California is definitely one of the largest (if not the largest) producer of redwood lumber. Most of this comes from commercial redwood farms. I strongly support the protection of "old growth" redwoods. The trees that are being taken out in this case have only been around for 10 years.