New Mexico is one of only five states that have exemplary laws guaranteeing solar access, according to a new report published by the Solar America Board for Codes and Standards.

The report looked at two areas: solar easements, or the ability of one property to receive sunlight across property lines without obstruction from another's trees or buildings; and solar rights, or the ability to install solar energy systems on property that is subject to private covenants and restrictions.

In New Mexico, a property owner can record ownership of a solar energy system and establish a solar easement by filing a declaration with the county clerk's office. The law also allows a property owner to enforce a solar right in court.

The other states recognized for exemplary solar access laws were Hawaii, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Wisconsin.

"As our energy policies shift to advancing solar energy as a significant source of our energy portfolio, guaranteeing access to sunlight becomes increasingly important," said Fernando Martinez, director of the New Mexico Energy Conservation and Management Division.

Santa Fe architect Beverly Spears used the state's laws in 2006 to defend her solar rights when a three-story building being constructed next door threatened to interfere with her solar collector.