This is an area that I believe the current model bylaws and bylaws in general do not cover. Blinds, shutters, awnings, pergolas etc all effective ways to cut down on heat inside a dwelling without resorting to using air con. These methods are very effective at keeping the heat out and therefore reducing the need for cooling.
The model bylaws state that an occupier can make changes (within reason) that are for the purpose of security and keeping out insects. I believe that this should include the above methods of protecting a home from the effects of the summer sun.
Of course, there would have to be ground rules laid down by individual stratas. The colour, type, where and how placed, to protect the strata complex from looking like a a hodge podge of bits and pieces. An owner should be allowed to do something if they wish to reduce the heat inside their home (without the OC being responsible for upkeep).
In any complex, some units will have more heat affecting them than others (such as Monique on the top floor). So of course the others don't know what the fuss is about. Same in this complex. Some suffer the summer sun alot, some suffer just a bit.
I believe the model by laws need to be updated to include such matters as energy effective cooling in existing strata complexes as to what an owner can (and of course cannot) do.