SolSmart provides recognition and no-cost technical assistance to help local governments reduce barriers to solar energy growth.
With the help of national and local experts, cities, counties, and towns are cutting red tape to make it easier for homes and businesses to go solar. Local governments, like Maricopa County, that achieve these goals are eligible for SolSmart designation, providing national recognition that they are “open for solar business.”
“Maricopa County recognizes that it has the potential to be a leader in solar energy development. The county is one of the most viable regions in the nation for photovoltaic and concentrated solar energy generation. This potential has been recognized by both utility-scale energy developers and residential roof-top solar providers. Participating in the SolSmart program provides an opportunity for Maricopa County to access expert guidance to improve business opportunities for solar energy production. It also assists in getting the message out that a vibrant business climate for solar not only saves energy and helps the environment, but produces jobs and attracts new economic development to the county.”
Lynn Favour, AICP, Deputy Director
Maricopa County Planning & Development Department
About the SolSmart Project at The National Civic League
The National Civic League’s focus on civic engagement and environmental sustainability led to partner with the International City/County Management Association on SolSmart. SolSmart is funded by the U.S. Department of Energy’s SunShot Initiative and works to make it faster, cheaper, and easier to go solar. National Civic League works to support the designation program and to encourage communities to engage residents around solar and sustainability issues.
The SolSmart designation program recognize communities that have taken steps to make it easier for businesses and residents to go solar. Communities pursuing SolSmart designation will be eligible for no-cost technical assistance from a team of national solar experts. NCL is working to see 300 communities become designated and advocate for strong community engagement practices in creating and further local community solar goals.
Communities eligible to receive the Solsmart designation must prove success in making solar accessible in their community. To learn more about the program visit: www.https://www.gosparc.org/
Apply: complete online application: https://www.gosparc.org/apply-now
