The future of the planet vs. shiny looking panels on roofs? "Homeowners boards insist that they are protecting property values by enforcing rules that govern everything from paint color to how early trash bins can be set out for collection," reports the LA Times. "But residents say their right to invest in alternative energy trumps the sensibilities of neighbors who don't like how the panels look." Any good news? Yes. "Homeowners' main defense is the Solar Rights Act, adopted by California in 1978 to protect consumers' right to install solar energy technology. The law makes it difficult for homeowners groups to reject solar energy equipment unless it creates a safety hazard or a modification can be made without great cost." more ›