Eau Claire Gets National Recognition For Solar Efforts

A Nonprofit Backed By The US Department Of Energy Applauds City For Making Solar Transition Easier For Homeowners

A nonprofit organization called SOLSMART, which is funded by the U.S. Department of Energy has awarded Eau Claire with its top honor for easing the transition to solar power for homeowners.

SOLSMART is a group that encourages municipalities to reduce what it calls "soft costs" associated with the installation of solar panels and related infrastructure on peoples` property. For Eau Claire, Associate Planner Ned Noel said that meant getting the city council to enact solar specific rules that weren’t on the books prior to 2015.

"The ordinance really clarifies expectations for development of solar, whether it’s on a rooftop or on the ground," said Noel. “"t also is very solar friendly from the point of view that there’s not a lot of cumbersome ordinances or special permits that are needed."..