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LA20-69 ExH <br /> Sec. 78-1379. -Alternative energy systems. <br /> (a) Scope. Section 78-1379 applies to alternative energy systems in all zoning districts. <br /> (b) Purpose and intent. The purpose and intent of this section is to establish standards and procedures <br /> by which the installation and operation of alternative energy systems shall be regulated within the <br /> city. The city finds that it is in the public interest to encourage alternative energy systems that have a <br /> positive impact on energy production and conservation while not having an adverse impact on the <br /> community. <br /> (c) Definitions. For the purpose of section 78-1379, the following definitions shall apply unless the <br /> context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning. <br /> (1) General definitions. <br /> Accessory. A system designed as a secondary use to existing buildings or facilities, wherein the <br /> power generated is used primarily for on-site consumption. <br /> Alternative energy system. A ground source heat pump, wind energy conversion system, <br /> hydronic furnace or solar energy system. <br /> (3) Solar energy systems definitions. <br /> Building-integrated solar energy system. A solar energy system that is an integral part of a <br /> principal or accessory building, rather than a separate mechanical device, replacing or <br /> substituting for an architectural or structural component of the building including, but not limited <br /> to, photovoltaic or hot water solar systems contained within roofing materials, windows, <br /> skylights and awnings. <br /> Flush-mounted solar energy system. A roof-mounted system mounted directly abutting the roof. • <br /> The pitch of the solar collector may exceed the pitch of the roof up to five percent but shall not <br /> be higher than ten inches above the roof. <br /> Passive solar energy system. A system that captures solar light or heat without transforming it <br /> to another form of energy or transferring the energy via a heat exchanger. <br /> Photovoltaic system. A solar energy system that converts solar energy directly into electricity. <br /> Solar energy system. A device or structural design feature, a substantial purpose of which is to <br /> provide daylight for interior lighting or provide for the collection, storage and distribution of solar <br /> energy for space heating or cooling, electricity generation or water heating. <br /> (3) Safety. Ground source heat pumps shall be certified by Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. and <br /> meet the requirements of the State Building Code. <br /> (5) Permits. A city building permit and any other required agency permits shall be obtained for any <br /> ground source heat pump system prior to installation. Borings for vertical systems are subject to <br /> approval from the Minnesota Department of Public Health. <br /> (e) Solar energy systems. <br /> (1) Zoning districts. Solar energy systems in accordance with the standards in this section are <br /> allowed as a permitted accessory use in all zoning districts. <br /> (2) Standards. <br /> a. Exemption. Passive or building-integrated solar energy systems are exempt from the <br /> requirements of this section and shall be regulated as any other building element. <br /> b. Roof-mounted systems allowed. The only solar energy systems allowed in the city are <br /> those that are roof-mounted, <br />