SolSmart Designees

Chapel Hill

North Carolina
SolSmart Gold
Population: 64,051
Designation Level: SolSmart Gold
Year Designated: 2017
View Designee Website
  • 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 accessory use solar PV by right in all major zones
  • Cross-trained inspection and permitting staff on solar PV via in-person or online resources
  • Hosted a Community “Solarize” campaign, allowing residents to benefit from group discounts and affordable solar financing
Chapel Hill is committed to expanding solar energy use and proud to be one of the founding participants in SolSmart. This program will allow us to build on the town’s previous accomplishments, including our participation in the Department of Energy’s Solar Roadmap program.
- Pam Hemminger, Town of Chapel Hill Mayor