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Pima County has for years been proactive and forward-looking on sustainability issues. We adopted the first Sustainable Action Plan for county operations in 2008, and were a leader in establishing Renewable Energy Incentive Districts to promote large-scale solar installations because we recognize the need to minimize our dependence on energy sources that rely on fossil fuels. Through fee waivers and other incentives, we will continue to promote renewable and alternative energy sources in our county operations and throughout Pima County.Sharon Bronson, Pima County Supervisor
SolSmart Criteria
Program Highlights
Case Study
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
Created a streamlined process to approve certain solar permit applications over the counter
Program Highlights
Launched and supported utility-provided community solar programs with Tuscon Electric Power (Bright Tuscon Community Solar Program) and Trico Electric (Community Sun Farm)
Installed 2MW of solar PV on under-utilized properties near the Tres Rios and Agua Nueva Water Reclamation Facilities
Provided local incentives called Renewable Energy Incentive Districts to encourage utility-scale solar PV within unincorporated areas of Pima County
Case Study
Pima County has achieved numerous solar milestones, including some innovative actions. Given the large size of the county, virtual inspections make economic sense and deliver the same standard of safety. Read more about this innovation and other solar efforts in the full case study.