Since 2016, the federal SolSmart program has helped 500 communities become solar ready. Now, the program is aiming to designate 500 more communities over the next few years. The Great Plains Institute is a SolSmart liaison. Through our recruitment efforts, we’ve helped about 100 communities become solar ready. Most recently, we helped Minnetonka, Minnesota, achieve Bronze designation in the program’s new phase.
SolSmart is a US Department of Energy-funded designation program that helps communities get solar ready. “Solar ready” means that municipalities encourage solar development and have set up clear processes to get there. In other words, homeowners in a SolSmart community do not need to worry about getting caught up in endless permitting red tape if they want to install solar panels on their house.
Communities can be SolSmart Bronze, Silver, Gold, or Platinum. For many communities, SolSmart designation attracts solar investment in their area and showcases their commitment to renewable energy and/or climate action.
To achieve designation, communities must take certain actions, like reviewing their solar permitting and zoning regulations, training staff about solar installations, or procuring solar energy for municipal operations, among many other options. In general, communities seeking designation have a lot of freedom to choose which actions meet their goals and will give them enough points for designation.
To learn more about the SolSmart actions and designation process, check out the SolSmart program guide.
As a liaison for SolSmart, GPI works to get interested communities involved in the program and ensures they receive all the help they need to meet their solar goals. One way we do this is by connecting with Sustainable States Network programs (GPI manages the Sustainable States Network). Sustainable States Network programs help communities in their states achieve sustainability goals, including renewable energy deployment.
If you are interested in learning more about achieving SolSmart designation for your community or regional organization, check out the SolSmart website. Additionally, send any questions to our Renewable Energy team at [email protected].
