Learn more about:
1. The Toolkit
2. Addressing Community Concerns
3. Educational Modules and Webinars
4. IREC’s Large-Scale Renewables Expertise
With support from the Esther A. & Joseph Klingenstein Fund and in partnership with Camelot Energy, IREC has created a series of free materials to help local governments prepare for the growth of LSS and BESS developments, and access the information they need to make effective, fact-based decisions. These materials offer insights into best practices around planning, zoning, community engagement, and other measures. They offer guidance to help dispel misinformation, address residents’ needs and concerns, and ensure these projects provide benefits for communities.
The Toolkit
With support from the Esther A. & Joseph Klingenstein Fund, and in collaboration with Camelot Energy and other partners, IREC has created a free toolkit to help local governments prepare for the growth of LSS and BESS developments, and access the information they need to make effective, fact-based decisions. This toolkit offers insights into best practices for large-scale solar, focusing on public engagement, planning, permitting, and other topics.
By utilizing the toolkit, you will learn how to build the groundwork for success before solar projects even begin. In optimizing zoning, permitting, and inspection; ensuring conservation of farmland; and determining relevant authorities; local governments can clarify the development processes while addressing the concerns of businesses and residents alike. The guide also outlines steps communities can take to benefit financially and shape the long-term life of an LSS or BESS development.
Addressing Community Concerns
Community members dealing with LSS and BESS for the first time often have questions about the installations and their impact on the area. To help address any concerns and dispel misinformation, IREC developed an online resource that examines common misconceptions about these technologies, clarifies the facts, and offers methods for local governments to address any concerns about development impacts. Access the resource here:
Educational Video Series
The Large-Scale Solar and Energy Storage educational video series builds upon the guidance provided in the Toolkit by offering practical, in-depth instruction on key topics related to large-scale solar and battery energy storage system (BESS) development.
This video series includes three modules that local governments can use to deepen their understanding of the best practices needed to successfully plan for, permit, and oversee large-scale energy projects. Each module provides structured guidance and practical resources to help communities strengthen local decision-making and build the capacity needed to support renewable energy development.
This educational video series is made possible through the generous support of the Esther A. & Joseph Klingenstein Fund and created by IREC in partnership with Camelot Energy and other stakeholders.
Module 1: Siting & Permitting
The first module focuses on one of the most important phases of large-scale solar and battery energy storage development: thoughtful siting and effective permitting.
Communities often face difficult decisions when new renewable energy projects are proposed. Module 1 equips local officials with practical tools to proactively plan for development, reduce uncertainty, avoid unnecessary project delays or moratoria, and establish permitting processes that protect public safety while supporting responsible growth.
Topics covered:
- Context and motivation for solar development
- Siting
- Permitting
- Decommissioning
Module 2 and 3 coming soon!
Watch Webinars On-Demand
How Communities Can Benefit From Large-Scale Solar and Energy Storage Systems | October 7, 2025
Watch this free webinar for an overview of best practices and ways to utilize the toolkit to lay the groundwork for solar success. The session includes remarks from solar experts, local government case studies, and more.
Presented in partnership with Camelot Energy, this webinar was made possible by the generous support of the Esther A. & Joseph Klingenstein Fund.
Preparing for Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS): Safety 101 for First Responders | December 17, 2025
This webinar discusses the quickly evolving topic of energy storage system (ESS) safety. We provide an overview of the current BESS safety concerns, as well as technical and analytical context to help put these risks in perspective. In addition, we explore best practices in system testing, design, and construction to enable effective ESS installations.
Presented in partnership with Camelot Energy, this webinar was made possible by the generous support of the Esther A. & Joseph Klingenstein Fund.
Learn About IREC’s Large-Scale Renewables Expertise
IREC offers multiple programs that deal with best practices around large-scale renewables, with various projects designed to equip local governments with the resources and tools to ensure energy development aligns with their priorities. View more of our projects here: