If you would like to change the Deed Restrictions to allow for this change it is a little bit of a process but can be done.
To answer your question about waiting for the Association, no you do not have to. Ultimately whether the Board members approve or disapprove of Solar Panels they do not have the authority to change the restrictions. In a nutshell the restrictions can be changed by getting the written concent of 2/3 of the current lot owners as well as filing for the change with the County Council. If there are two people, i.e. husband and wife, on the deed then I believe they both need to sign agreeing to the change for that to count as one vote.
The above is very basic but gives you an idea of what would need to be done.
By the way I am for allowing solar panels and will sign. Additionally I know that my neighbor will as well.