Elgin

In Illinois and nationwide, SolSmart-designated communities are opening up solar markets and encouraging a dramatic expansion of solar energy.

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Illinois Takes National Lead in SolSmart Designations!

• Created an online permitting checklist, increasing transparency for community members and solar installers.
• Reviewed local zoning codes and identified restrictions that intentionally or unintentionally prohibit solar PV development.
• Allowed solar by-right accessory use in all zones (so solar installations don’t require special permits or hearings).
• Cross-trained both inspection and permitting staff on solar PV.
• Posted online resources regarding state-level solar policies and incentives, financing opportunities, community solar goals, consumer protection, and more.
• Installed solar-plus-storage on government-owned facilities and land.
• Supported a community-wide group purchase program (e.g. Solarize).
• Demonstrated activity in state regulatory and/or legislative proceedings regarding solar PV.
• Demonstrated that residential permit fees for solar PV are $500 or less.
• Required no more than one permit application form for a small rooftop solar PV system, and confirmed a three-business day turnaround time for residential rooftop solar PV.
• Completed comprehensive update of zoning to ensure that solar is allowed by right in all major zones.