Update on Solar Legislation in Salem

[Brandon Spencer-Hartle]

The HPLO has been actively following House Bill 3516, a proposal that would exempt photovoltaic installations from local design review processes. Though our testimony and communications with legislators and the League of Oregon Cities, it appears that several amendments are being prepared that would retain design review for National Register and Local Landmark properties and districts. Retaining local historic design review for solar installations provides a mechanism to support alternative energy AND uphold the integrity of individual historic properties and the collective whole of historic districts. While we've made great progress, the sponsors of the bill are still considering the exempting of solar installations in Conservation Districts from historic design review. This exemption is largely targeted at the Portland metro area, where districts like the McLoughlin Conservation and Mississippi Conservation have seen new construction and a growing desire to install solar. As evidenced by the RICAP 5 process in Portland, sensible local design review is a way to meet local sustainability and preservation goals at the same time. The HPLO will continue to advocate for protecting historic resources while encouraging new green technologies.