Where to get approval for solar photovoltaic power generation

How is a solar energy project approved?

The approval process for a solar energy project involves several basic steps. First, a permit application is submitted for review by a local permitting agency, known as the “enforcing agency.” Typically, the contractor installing the solar energy system will submit the permit on behalf of the building owner.

How do I get a solar permit?

Developing a solar-specific permit (or combining building and electrical permits with revisions to collect information unique to solar energy systems) and posting application materials online can save time and money for both those completing the forms (and their customers) and the local government staff reviewing and approving these applications.

Do you need a permit to install solar panels?

Generally, local governments require a homeowner's solar installer/contractor to obtain a permit for rooftop panels before they can be installed. After the PV system is installed, a professional from the local government will inspect the new array to ensure all building, electrical, and safety codes have been followed.

Should a local government webpage provide a set of solar permitting requirements?

Providing a set of requirements for the local solar permitting process (for both residential and commercial solar) on an easy-to-find local government webpage represents a major step toward overcoming informational barriers.

How can a local government enforcing agency ensure efficient solar permitting?

Effective training is one of the most important steps that local governments and the solar industry can take to ensure efficient permitting. Local enforcing agencies can be organized differently, but all have an established process for receiving, reviewing, and approving permits.

Does a solar permit require a single application form?

SolSmart’s Standardized Solar Permit Application Form While requiring a single application form under existing permitting processes represents an improvement over requiring both a building and electrical permit, it may still be more time consuming to complete, review, and approve permits via a process not specifically designed for solar.