Title
Special Recognition - City of Olympia SolSmart Gold Designation
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee.
City Manager Recommendation:
Recognize Olympia’s “SolSmart Gold” designation for advancing solar energy growth.
Report
Issue:
Whether to recognize Olympia’s SolSmart Gold designation.
Staff Contact:
Pamela Braff, PhD, Climate Program Manager, City Manager’s Office, 360.753.8249
Presenter(s):
Pamela Braff, PhD, Climate Program Manager
Background and Analysis:
In June 2022, the City of Olympia received a Gold designation from the national SolSmart program for advancing the growth of solar energy across Olympia. Funded by the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Energy Technologies Office, SolSmart recognizes cities and counties for cutting red tape and making solar more affordable and accessible for homes and businesses.
The city took several actions to achieve the SolSmart Gold designation, including:
• Created a solar resource webpage with answers to frequently asked questions about going solar
• Created an online permitting checklist for rooftop solar installations to increase transparency for community members and solar installers
• Streamlined the permit process timeline. Most residential rooftop solar applications are reviewed within two days of submission.
• Reviewed local codes and identified restrictions that intentionally or unintentionally prohibit solar PV development.
• Installed solar PV at city facilities.
• Supported a community-wide group purchase program and community solar program.
Attachments:
Presentation