SolSmart Designees
Chicago
Illinois
- Created a streamlined process to approve certain solar permit applications over the counter
- Provided an online process for scheduling and responding to inspection requests
- Hosted a community “Solarize” campaign, Solarize Chicago, allowing residents to benefit from group discounts and affordable solar financing
- Installed solar on local facilities, including a 256kW array on Shedd Acquarium and arrays on local public schools
- 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
