SolSmart Designees
Las Cruces
New Mexico
Population: 103,432
Designation Level:
SolSmart Gold
Year Designated:
2019
- 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 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
- Provided a streamlined permitting pathway for small PV systems
“Las Cruces is proud to be the first city in the state of New Mexico to achieve a Solsmart Gold designation with additional recognition for its efforts to make the inspection process simple and convenient. This acknowledgment demonstrates the City’s commitment to sustainable practices including the development of renewable energy jobs and use,”
- Mayor Ken Miyagishima
