District: N/A
Owner: Public Storageinc
HDLC Staff: Wendy Cargile
Rating: Landmark
Applicant: Jeffrey David Cantin
Permit #: 25-30048-HDLC
Description: Request to install roof mounted solar panels and backup batteries at a Landmark, commercial building.
HDLC Design Guidelines:
05:10 -- Guidelines for Roofing
10:8-9 -- Guidelines for Site Elements
Staff Recommendations:
The building at 1901 St Charles became a designated Landmark in 2000 and was constructed in 1922.
The applicant is proposing to install a large solar array on the flat roof of the building with accompanying wall mounted equipment and conduit.
Per the HDLC Guidelines, solar panels are required to be reviewed by the Commission at Landmark/Significant rated buildings. However, the solar panels at this property will not be visible due to the 3'-6" parapet, flat roof, and the overall height of the building. Staff recommends approval of the solar panels.
The wall mounted equipment and conduit will be visible and is proposed at the St. Mary St elevation along with the existing electrical meters. The conduit is shown on the drawings being installed over the parapet and down the full height of the building to the equipment at ground level. Staff recommends that the conduit be run internally as much as possible, and should only be exposed to the exterior at the ground level, to match the existing electrical equipment.
Recommendations:
Solar Panels - Approval
Wall-mounted Equipment - Denial as currently proposed, but approval with staff recommendations for relocation.