SolSmart Designees
Blacksburg
Virginia
- 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
Blacksburg is proud of its leadership role on solar energy in Virginia. We were one of the first communities in the state to pass a greenhouse gas emissions reduction target, and the very first to offer a Solarize campaign. We intend to continue working toward a clean energy future for our citizens and businesses. Attaining SolSmart Silver designation is just one more way that we are translating our ambitious goals into practical action.
- Mayor Leslie Hager-Smith
