Prah v. Maretti Supreme Court of Wisconsin 321 N.W.2d 182 (1982) Facts Plaintiff is owner of residence that has solar panels to supply energy for heat and hot water to the plaintiff’s home. Defendant purchased lot adjacent to plaintiff’s home. Plaintiff claims that defendant’s home was blocking the sunlight and interfering with the plaintiff’s solar panels. Procedural History Circuit court found that plaintiff did not state a claim and granted summary judgement for defendant. Issue Presented Can a person state a claim under private nuisance for obstructed access to sunlight when using sunlight for energy purposes? Arguments Presented Rule Private nuisance doctrine applies to interference w/ property owner’s access to sunlight. Reasoning Society has increased regulating the use of the land for general welfare. Access to sunlight has taken on a new significance in recent years with the development of solar energy. Access to sunlight outweighs unhindered private development in modern world. Private nuisance law is best because it has flexibility that both protects landowners’ right of access to sunlight and another landowner’s right to develop land. Allowing nuisance claims for obstructed access to sunlight will promote reasonable use of land in manner suited to modern day. Holding Yes. Judgement Reversed.