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Receiving Gold designation in 2017 was the culmination of a multi-year effort to promote solar as a feasible clean energy alternative, even up here in Northwest Washington; we're especially proud to be one of just seven SolSmart cities in our state. Interest continues to grow: since then, we've added another 65 installations (over 800 kilowatts) and now we're seeing residents choose solar to charge their Electric Vehicles.”Ross Freeman, Sustainability Manager, City of Mercer Island
SolSmart Criteria
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