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    SolSmart is a national designation program designed to recognize communities that have taken key steps to address local barriers to solar energy and foster the growth of mature local solar markets.

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    SolSmart is a national designation program designed to recognize communities that have taken key steps to address local barriers to solar energy and foster the growth of mature local solar markets.

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      Sustainable States Network: Linking State-Based Recognition Programs

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      SolarAPP+ Spotlight: Removing Red Tape on Solar Projects Nationwide

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      How Do You Track Solar in Your Community?

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Carrboro NC

Designation Level: SolSmart Gold

In The News
  • 05/19/2017 Chapelboro.com
    Chapel Hill and Carrboro Recognized by Federal Solar Power Program
Solsmart Advisor
Anne Tazewell North Carolina Clean Energy Technology Center
Technical Assistance Organization
  • Cadmus Group
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  1. SolSmart Criteria
  2. Program Highlights
SolSmart Criteria
  • 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
  • Provided a streamlined permitting pathway for small PV systems
Program Highlights
  • Trained fire and safety staff on solar PV
  • Created and provided online a handout for developers, Land Use Considerations for Photovoltaic Installations, that provides an overview of what development regulations allow under which conditions (e.g. types and sizes of solar PV arrays permitted, the processes required, and other relevant information, such as design standards and policy outside of the zoning language)
  • Hosted a community “Solarize” campaign, Solarize Carrboro, allowing residents to benefit from group discounts and affordable solar financing
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