Ways Your City can Make Going Solar Easier

Residents, businesses, and municipalities across the U.S. are more and more readily taking advantage of alternative energy sources, especially solar power, than ever before. Millions of homes use solar energy their homes, reducing their carbon footprint, helping the environment, and reducing their utility payments.

As a city government, you can play a big role in the local adoption of alternative energy. Follow the steps below for you to bring solar power to your residents.

Leading By Example: Solar Panel Installation on Municipal Building

People follow working examples. Your city government can help set the pace for your city’s residents by installing solar panels on your public buildings. This adaption will help reduce your electricity bills as well as positioning your city as more marketable, especially to attract younger residents. 

Invest in Local Financing Opportunities

There are many resources for financing solar power installation and running for your residents. One popular option to look into is the Property Assessed Clean Energy Program (PACE). This program provides local and state money for residents and businesses to make energy improvements then make repayment through their property taxes. Consider partnering with local banks and financial institutions to get the best options for you, your partner, and those who call your city home.

Reduce the Barriers for Your Residents

Installation is one of the highest costs of solar power adaption and thus one of the biggest areas to reduce costs. Costs that go beyond materials such as permits and zoning factor into the cost of a new system - by reducing fees of permits and speeding up approval processes, you can encourage solar power investment. Contact the Department of Energy’s Solar program to get help reforming your permit process.

Create a “Solar panels” Community with the Right Partner

Consider changing your municipal policies about new homes and buildings. Many local governments ensure that new construction includes designs to facilitate solar energy installation making buildings much more able to “go solar.” Working with an experienced, established company like Michigan Solar Solutions can help you achieve your alternative energy goals. Change is usually not easy, but choosing to partner with a company with over a decade of experience helping cities, residents, businesses, and more gain the advantages of solar energy makes all the difference.

Reach out to the nearest location of Michigan Solar Solutions to you today to discuss your options.