
SolSmart Designees
Apex
North Carolina
- 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
The Gold Designation reflects the effort of our elected leadership and professional staff to reduce barriers to the deployment of solar PV. These efforts, coupled with the Town’s investment in solar PV for our facilities demonstrate that our community is committed to driving continual improvement in our solar market, and in the process of doing so, work toward the goals outlined in a Town Council resolution committing to 100% renewable energy by the year 2050.
- Drew Havens, Apex Town Manager