The New York Times recently ran an article on how solar power is getting all caught up in red tape--specifically, local building codes and permitting requirements. My first reaction was: "Darn, I've been scooped." I'd been meaning to write about these bureaucratic hassles for over a year, but never got around to it. My second reaction was: "Hey, that's only half the story." Although much could be done to streamline the process of applying for approval to install panels, the regulations are there for a reason.