The U.S. Dept. of Energy has launched the SolarAPP+ Prize, a million-dollar prize program designed to accelerate the adoption of SolarAPP+, an online platform that instantly issues permits for code-compliant residential solar photovoltaic systems. Local governments that successfully adopt SolarAPP+ by April 27, 2023 can receive a $15,000 cash prize.
Solar permitting can be a major bottleneck for residential solar installations, adding weeks, and in some cases, months to adoption timelines. SolarAPP+ eases the permitting process and speeds timelines. To date, SolarAPP+ has approved over 9,500 projects and saved more than 9,500 hours in plan review time. Projects are permitted and inspected about two weeks faster, given that permits are issued instantly for code-compliant systems.
To apply for the prize, local governments must submit an application and letter of support by November 4, 2022 at 3 p.m. ET.
Register for an informational webinar about the prize on September 27, 2022.
News item from DOE
