The City of Hilliard is receiving a Bronze designation from the national SolSmart program for advancing the growth of solar energy across Central Ohio.
This designation recognizes the City for taking steps that make it faster, easier, and more affordable for local homes and businesses to go solar. SolSmart is led by the Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC) and the International City/County Management Association (ICMA) and funded by the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Energy Technologies Office.
More than 450 municipalities, counties, and regional organizations have achieved SolSmart designation since the program launched in 2016. SolSmart helps local governments and regional organizations bring new business to their community, promote economic growth, and foster the creation of new jobs.
“Now, more than ever, it’s important that we leverage the benefits of solar energy on a more consistent basis in our communities,” said Dan Ralley, Hilliard Assistant City Manager and Community Development Director. “Change like this happens at the local level, and we’re proud to earn this honor by providing clear guidance on regulation practices and educating our residents on the importance of solar platforms into the future.”
The City of Hilliard was recognized for its efforts in permitting and inspection as well planning and zoning with an emphasis on solar efficiency.
SolSmart uses objective criteria to award points based on the actions they take to reduce barriers to solar energy development. As part of the SolSmart program, a team of national experts provides no-cost technical assistance to help communities and regional organizations achieve designation.
