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SolSmart Designees
Burnsville
Minnesota
More communities than ever are using solar energy thanks in part to a program that makes it easier for local governments to make the switch to sun. The Great Plains Institute (GPI) led the Upper Midwest cohort of communities seeking SolSmart designation, the largest in the nation. Working with Clean Energy Resource Teams, Metropolitan Council, Midwest Renewable Energy Association, and Winneshiek Energy District, communities across Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin are now designated as “solar ready.”

- 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
Our SolSmart Bronze designation shows that the City of Burnsville is committed to supporting renewable energy choices for our environment, for our economy and for future generations. The City of Burnsville will continue to strive to increase the use of clean, alternative energy options into city facilities and promote solar energy options within the community.
- Mayor Kautz