The U.S. Department of Energy recently rolled out its Solar Automated Permit Processing (SolarAPP+) tool, a platform that allows municipalities to expedite approvals of residential solar installations.
More than 125 communities have already adopted SolarAPP+ for their permitting, and the DOE has set a goal to enroll 60 additional cities by March of 2022. These efforts are in-step with the national effort to achieve 100% clean electric power by 2035.
So how will this
rollout affect how contractors get through the permitting process? When the
software becomes available in your area, what can you expect to change?
Standardizing
the Review Process
SolarAPP+ is streamlining permit reviews by making them all conform to a simplified and standardized process. It automatically runs compliance checks, ensuring that system designs are safe and up to code.
The current codes used by the system are the 2017 National Fire Protection Association 70 National Electrical Code (NEC) for rooftop PV permits, 2018 I-Codes (International Residential Code, and International Building Code) for rooftop PV permits, and CA Title 24 Modifications. The system’s review includes inspection checklists and supports state and local license verification.
Updates to the system’s code library and functions are pending. The app will be expanded to support permits for residential main panel upgrades, reroofing, new home construction for rooftop PV and residential storage, solar thermal, multifamily PV storage, and residential EV charging.
Enhancing
Speed and Capacity
SolarAPP+ speeds up approvals so that municipalities can process 5-14x the volume of permit applications. Compliant “cookie-cutter” systems will get automatic approval, allowing contractors to kick off projects right away. More complex projects will still be sped through the review process thanks to automatic checks and returns for corrections.
With long waits for
permit approvals no longer an issue, solar contractors will be able to fit more
installations into their monthly calendars. This creates a great opportunity
for growth, as contractors can scale up with increased sales.
Enjoy
More Solar Sales Leads
A faster, less complicated permitting process will only make solar more appealing to residential customers, resulting in more customer conversions overall. But contractors can also bump up their sales by directly sourcing solar sales leads that have been verified as ready buyers.
Grid Freedom
supplies sale-ready leads to contractors at affordable rates. All leads come
with their consultation already scheduled, ensuring that no extra nurturing is
necessary to secure a meeting.
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