Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm is challenging 60 new communities to achieve SolSmart designation in the next six months, which will help even more local governments open their doors to solar energy growth.

The U.S. Department of Energy recently concluded a “Summer of Solar” campaign that successfully challenged at least 125 local governments to sign up for the SolarAPP+ automated permitting platform. For its next challenge, the DOE is inviting more communities to join the SolSmart program in order to make it faster, easier, and more affordable to go solar.

“DOE’s SolarAPP+ tool and SolSmart program are helping communities tear down barriers to clean energy and unlock the health and economic benefits of solar. We are challenging communities to increase solar deployment and providing them the tools they need to succeed,” Secretary Granholm said in the announcement.

Today, more than 400 communities in 41 states, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. Virgin Islands have achieved SolSmart designation. The new goal would add at least 60 to the total by March 2022.

No matter where you live, solar energy can help your community meet sustainability goals and spark new economic development and jobs. SolSmart offers no-cost technical assistance to any municipality, county, or regional organization interested in pursuing designation. Contact us today to learn more.