A town in Germany is raising some ire about a new ordinance going into effect October 1st. In this ordinance, the town of Marburg will mandate that anyone with new construction, retrofit, remodel or roof repair install a photovoltaic system. Photovoltaics, or solar panels, can be used for electricity as well as water heating. The historic town is already progressive with green alternatives, using windmills and hydroelectric power for energy. However, the town leaders say it's not enough. The regional government is threatening to stop the action, saying it impedes on the rights of homeowners. The city is threatening to go all the way to the state government, who supports the ordinance.

Read the NY Times article here

I can't imagine this going over well.

actually i can see how it would be a good thing when it comes to the whole bit about making the change to clean renewable energy resources even if it is done by forcing it on those who are either to ignorent/uniintelligent and or just plain lazy too know that it would benefit everyone in the long run

That's a rather unfair statement. Photovoltaic systems can be expensive due to the panels. You're saying it's OK for the government to make a person go into hock for something that, at best, will only slightly cut energy usage? I can see if it's new construction or a commercial renovation, but making someone change to solar just for repairing their roof?

b-b-but...it's for the common good. We should totally make people pony up if it helps us save the Earth!

Those Germans sure know how to be needlessly cruel. The town should be offering people money to do it, not fining them if they don't.

on political stuff I think you have my perspective wrapped up. and nicer than I can do it.

This time I agree with you both.

*faints*