By Patrice ‘Pete’ Parsons | TXSES Executive Director
It’s June in Texas, another day of unrelenting headlines about excessive heat warnings and triple-digit temperatures and ERCOT asking us to conserve electricity. It’s not surprising that more and more Texans are looking to solar and storage to ensure continued electric service during grid emergencies.
Texas’ solar industry is in overdrive, and it’s not just because of the extreme weather.
With hardware costs down nearly 50 percent over the past decade in the residential and small commercial markets, coupled with the Inflation Reduction Act’s 30 percent tax credit for residential systems installed through 2034, the Texas solar industry can realistically plan for growth and hire more people to respond to the demand. Demand is also on the rise for batteries as homeowners combine solar with storage for reliable backup power. Storage is also eligible for the 30 percent tax credit.
But falling hardware prices and tax credits aren’t the whole picture.
Currently representing about 8 percent, soft costs like permitting, financing and installation make up a growing share of the total solar system’s costs. There is no standardized permitting process. Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) have their own set of rules and processes for solar that can take anywhere from two weeks to two months. Mistakes in the paperwork and it’s a do-over. This doesn’t include the interconnection process which can take up to six months in certain parts of the state. Ultimately, speed
In 2021 and in response to the overwhelming volume of residential solar permitting applications nationwide, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), along with code officials, AHJs and the solar industry developed a standardized plan review software to run compliance checks and speed up building permit approvals for eligible solar rooftop systems. Known as Solar APP+ (Solar Automated Permit Processing), this free, innovative software is a lifesaver for permitting departments. Here are some key facets of the Solar APP+ software:
It integrates with existing government software.
It automates plan review, permit approval, and project tracking.
It standardizes up to 90% of standard system plans.
It provides an inspection checklist and final sign-off after installation.
According to a 2022 NREL report on Solar APP+ performance, communities that have adopted SolarAPP+ have saved more than 12,800 hours in plan review time, and projects are installed about two weeks faster, given that permits are issued instantly for code-compliant systems. This groundbreaking software has the potential to speed up installations and reduce costs while addressing climate change.
Currently, 15 AHJs have publicly launched SolarAPP+, and 16 more are piloting the platform including AHJs in Tool, Waco and Houston, Texas.
With the relentless growth of solar in the state, we want to help more Texas municipalities adopt Solar APP+, and thanks to our friends at the State Energy Conservation Office (SECO), we’ll be able to do just that.
Once approved by the Department of Energy (DOE), SECO will offer a $25K funding opportunity for each qualified municipality to adopt Solar APP+. In addition to SECO funding, NREL will support the municipalities with free technical assistance and hardware upgrades – this means NO cost to municipalities! It’s our intention to help a minimum of seven additional municipalities adopt Solar APP+ beginning October 1.
If you’re interested in helping your municipality adopt Solar APP+, email me at pparsons@txses.org
By Steven Ùgalde, TXSES Marketing & Outreach Coordinator
The City of Houston and the Houston Permitting Center (HPC) have achieved remarkable success in the solar and renewable energy industries, largely attributed to the cutting-edge software development, SolarAPP+. Houston has fully embraced this pioneering platform, propelling the city toward a more sustainable future through rapid solar energy adoption.
SolarAPP+, the solar automated permit processing developed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), represents a groundbreaking online web portal meticulously engineered to revolutionize plan review and permitting procedures for residential photovoltaic (PV) systems while strictly adhering to code compliance.
Through its advanced functionality and utilization of model building, electrical, and fire codes, SolarAPP+ autonomously conducts a comprehensive compliance assessment based on input data, ensuring that proposed solar installations not only meet safety standards but also align with code requirements. The Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) oversees the installation process, assessing practices, workmanship, and alignment with approved designs during thorough inspections.
At no charge to municipalities, this innovative platform significantly expedites the permitting process without incurring any costs for the cities. SolarAPP+ not only accelerates the integration of solar energy but also reinforces sustainable practices. TXSES is spearheading the initiative to support other communities in adopting this cutting-edge technology, thereby advancing SolarAPP+’s mission to streamline installation processes for installers and lower costs for consumers.
Inspired by Houston’s forward-thinking commitment, TXSES Executive Director Patrice Parsons and I hosted a city-wide gathering, uniting key stakeholders, including the HPC, NREL and the 12 approved installers, to draw insights from firsthand experiences of installers using SolarAPP+ and identify areas for potential enhancement.
The meeting presented a unique opportunity for a carefully selected group of stakeholders including passionate solar enthusiasts, seasoned industry professionals, and representatives from NREL to explore SolarAPP+’s multifaceted attributes, its prospective benefits, and the challenges to implement. The central theme revolved around the strategic transition from the pilot phase to full-scale implementation.
Throughout the session, the participants actively engaged in open dialogue with distinguished experts hailing from both NREL and HPC about the transformative influence of SolarAPP+ on the intricate solar permitting procedures. Attendees eagerly contributed their first-hand experiences with the platform, adding a practical dimension to the discussions.
A substantial amount of time and effort was invested in gaining a profound understanding of SolarAPP+’s impact on the solar sector. This meticulous examination allowed attendees to appreciate how this innovative platform is reshaping the industry’s landscape and promoting sustainability.
One significant proposal that emerged from these deliberations involved the implementation of an annual renewal license at the state level. This proposed license would require solar installers to submit new applications each year, ensuring their compliance with a code of ethics and addressing any pending or unresolved projects. Companies failing to address existing installation issues or customer complaints would be temporarily barred from initiating new projects until these issues were appropriately resolved.
One of the most pressing issues revolved around the poaching activities of fraudulent solar companies. These companies, through deceptive advertising, were undermining the integrity of the pilot program and other installers, resulting in financial losses for some consumers. Extensive discussions and collaborative efforts were initiated with other industry players to devise a viable solution to curb this fraudulent poaching issue.
TXSES is taking proactive steps to address these concerns. An all-encompassing meeting is scheduled for early November, which will include companies participating in the pilot program and TXSES’ esteemed business members. This gathering aims to foster collaboration and develop comprehensive strategies for legislative advocacy to enact policies that promote solar equity and justice.
To attend this crucial meeting, individuals are encouraged to become members of TXSES. Inquiries about membership can be directed to me at sugalde@txses.org. Detailed information about the meeting, which will focus on issues related to poaching and compliance, will be provided. For further insights into SolarAPP+, visit our website or feel free to reach out to me at sugalde@txses.org with any questions or concerns.
By Steven Ugalde – TXSES Marketing and Outreach Coordinator
Houston is propelling itself towards a more sustainable and eco-friendly future with a game-changing initiative – the new SolarAPP+. This trailblazing platform has been embraced by Houston to accelerate the adoption of solar energy and pave the way for a greener tomorrow. Intrigued by its visionary approach, TXSES Executive Director Patrice Parsons and I embarked on a visit to the Houston Permitting Center (HPC), keen to experience the transformative influence of SolarAPP+ on driving solar energy adoption throughout the city.
SolarAPP+, the Solar Automated Permit Processing, is an innovative online web portal designed to revolutionize the plan review and permitting process for code-compliant residential photovoltaic (PV) systems. By leveraging model building, electrical, and fire codes, SolarAPP+ independently conducts a comprehensive compliance check using data inputs ensuring the safety and adherence to code requirements of proposed solar installations. Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) verifies installation practices, workmanship, and compliance with the approved design during the meticulous inspection process. This innovative platform expedites permit issuance while upholding the highest safety and quality standards, furthering the integration of solar energy, and reinforcing sustainable practices.
HPC representatives Jaime Cortes, Merle Nevill, Rick Nordquist, Ken Porter, Carlos Rubiano, Heath Wierck, along with Building Official Byron King and Program Director Steve Stelzer, shared valuable feedback regarding the notable reduction in the time required for solar companies to submit their permits for installation.
Their insights highlighted the positive impact of the streamlined process, contributing to increased efficiency and accelerated solar project approvals. “SolarAPP+ ensures consistency and reduces the time spent on repetitive tasks,” said Staff Analyst Wierck.
With online permit applications, electronic document management and automated notifications, approvals are accelerated, and paperwork is reduced. The platform is exceptionally user-friendly for installers, facilitating a seamless registration process and providing a streamlined approach to check the status of applications. This user-centric design ensures that installers quickly become familiar with the system, enabling them to navigate through the process efficiently and effectively.
Analysts have begun utilizing data analytics to identify trends and patterns in the permitting and inspection process. This helps in making data-driven decisions for future process optimization, ensuring that both residents and installation professionals receive proper permit approvals while fostering collaboration between different departments involved in the process. This promotes a more integrated approach, reducing delays and improving coordination. Currently, HPC has confirmed a total of 12 solar companies approved for operation through SolarAPP+.
Thanks to SolarAPP+, installers can now embark on their projects with confidence, knowing that the platform will expedite their permit approvals and ensure compliance with all necessary codes and regulations.
In just 18 months, SolarAPP+ has emerged as transformational for the solar permitting process at HPC making it efficient for both installers and homeowners. “TXSES is eager to help other communities adopt this innovative tool,” said Parsons.
To address and overcome challenges related to SolarAPP+, Parsons and HPC have announced plans to convene a comprehensive city-wide meeting for key stakeholders, including HPC and the 12 approved installers, to engage in an open and collaborative discussion. The primary focus of the meeting is to gain valuable insights from installers’ experiences with Solar APP+ and identify potential areas of improvement.
If you’re interested in learning more about SolarAPP+ and how it might work in your community, contact me, Steven Ùgalde, at sugalde@txses.org.
We just survived another sizzling Texas summer. To keep cool and comfortable in the Texas heat, many of us do not think twice about cranking up the air conditioning. However, for Billy, an eight-year-old who lives on the southeast side of Austin, and his family, the decision to turn on the AC is not as simple. Air conditioning consumes tons of electricity, and electricity rates are often highest during summer months. As a result, paying the electric bill can be a monthly conundrum for Billy’s family. Do we incur a large utility bill or prioritize food, school supplies, or medical expenses?
Billy’s family is not alone — Texas has over ten million people living in poverty. These families spend up to 30 percent of their income on home energy costs compared to an average of 4 percent statewide.
Going solar could be a great solution to reduce these families’ energy burden. However, the large upfront costs of rooftop PV systems and limited financing options often make the long-term economic benefits of solar inaccessible to low-income families. For example, in Austin, solar adoption and utility rebates incentivizing adoption have disproportionately benefited the affluent (Figure 1). That leaves us with the question, “How can we provide clean, affordable energy to our neighbors that need it the most?”
Figure 1. Income Distribution of Solar Adoption in Austin. Top: Distribution of solar households compared to the distribution of all households in Austin. Bottom: Relative difference between the share of households in the solar program and the share of all households in Austin for each income level. Taken from “Which Austin Neighborhoods are Benefiting the Most from Solar.”
1PlanetSol Communities
The 1PlanetSol Community is a new approach that addresses these issues and dramatically expands access to solar and its impact in the community. Rather than the old, conventional approach where a single homeowner installs solar on his own roof to offset his electricity bill, 1PlanetSol facilitates a true community-wide approach that transforms solar into a market-based value proposition driven by consumer interest and buying power.
The core of 1PlanetSol is a member-based customer rewards program where members receive discounts on purchases, and the member businesses grow a new, committed customer base. The proceeds from the membership go to installing solar on homes built or repaired by Austin Habitat for Humanity, providing these low-income families free electricity and the opportunity to spend the savings on other family needs, like education or healthcare. Additionally, 1PlanetSol promotes investment in the local economy that can lead to economic growth and job creation within the community.
How It Works
Figure 2: The 1PlanetSol mobile app facilitates community engagement by allowing members to monitor the Community’s social and environmental impact in real-time and to identify and locate member businesses.
1. Citizens join – Citizens in the community join the 1PlanetSol Community through an annual membership. As members, they are able to participate in solar projects at a manageable cost ($49/year) and immediately benefit through discounts on purchases made at member businesses. A 1PlanetSol app keeps members engaged, allowing them to monitor their community’s social and environmental impact in real time and identify and locate member businesses (Figure 2).
2. Businesses join – Local businesses also join the 1PlanetSol Community through an annual membership. In return, they attract a new and loyal customer base to drive revenue growth while also building their environmental and social brand. Quarterly reports on customer engagement are provided to the businesses.
3. Solar is installed – The proceeds from the membership fees are then used to fund the installation of solar on low-income homes built or repaired by Austin Habitat for Humanity. The solar installations are free to the homeowners, allowing them to receive solar energy at no cost, lowering their energy burden while increasing their property value.
4. Community benefits year after year – 1PlanetSol is an annual program and will continue to help new families with solar installations in the ensuing years. As the membership grows, even more families will be able to benefit from solar every year.
Helping Texas and Beyond
The 1PlanetSol Community is launching in Austin in 2018. Our year-end goal is a 1,000-member community supporting 100 kW of solar, 100 percent of which will directly benefit 25 low-income families, collectively saving them $20,000 every year in electricity costs. We will continue to grow the membership base of the community in and outside of Austin to expand the number of families we can help and the impact we can make. Our five-year goal is to install over 1 MW of solar to power the homes of 300 low-income families, collectively saving $320,000 every year in electricity costs.
Join Our Community
1PlanetSol was formed in 2017 with a seed grant from the US Department of Energy and strong partnerships with Austin Habitat for Humanity and the Texas Energy Poverty Research Institute (TEPRI). We are looking for community partners, business sponsors, and financial support to help us in our mission to bring the benefits of solar to everyone. To find out more, go to www.1planetsol.org, or contact us at info@1planetsol.org.
Scott Nguyen is founder and Executive Director of 1PlanetSol. With over a decade of industry experience at venture-backed start-ups and major corporations, he is driven to accelerate our transformation to a cleaner, more efficient energy economy. Scott received his Ph.D. in physics from Harvard University.
by Steven Ùgalde, Marketing & Outreach Coordinator
Recently, I had the privilege of attending a solar installation training program, where prospective students gathered to learn how to properly install solar panels. Organized by Green Careers Texas, this two-day event aimed to empower participants with the skills they need to kickstart their journey in the solar industry.
The training took place at American YouthWorks in Austin on March 22nd and 23rd, and offered participants a hands-on learning experience. This opportunity was made possible by the generous donation of solar panels from TXSES Business Members, Lighthouse Solar. Among those present were Tracy Wallace, executive director of Green Careers Texas, and TXSES’s Patrice “Pete” Parsons, along with 12 students.
Green Careers Texas is a guiding light, providing numerous solar PV installation trainings that serve as a pathway to stable income in the solar sector. Their mission is clear: to tackle poverty and increase solar energy head-on by providing green career training and education. They strive to bridge the gap between employers and diverse qualified individuals in the field of solar PV installation, ensuring opportunities for all.
As I spoke with participants and trainers, it became evident that access to jobs in the solar industry is not only crucial for economic gain, but also about equality and protecting our planet through environmental justice and advocacy of underrepresented groups within the solar field. The National Solar Jobs Census revealed the struggles solar companies face in hiring skilled workers, especially from underrepresented groups, such as people of color and women. However, initiatives like Green Careers Texas are actively working to address this issue by equipping students with the skills they need and the tools needed to thrive in the clean energy industry.
One attendee, Aaron who is from west Texas, shared his motivation for joining the program: “I’m eager to learn about solar energy and contribute to a healthy change, especially in depleting natural resources.”
Similarly, Annie, another participant, emphasized the importance of cleaner and sustainable energy, stating, “I want to build a better platform and make a positive impact on the environment.”
Katelyn, who is participating through the YouthWorks program with Green Careers Texas, said she dreams of a future where she can install her own solar panels on her van and lead a life on the road.
As for Angel, another attendee, he stated, “I’m participating in the YouthWorks program and am eager to explore new opportunities and industries, particularly renewable energy. My parents keep me motivated, and I’m interested in keeping up-to-date and informed. This is my first time taking the class, and I appreciate the hands-on learning and the enthusiasm from the instructors.”
Nacho Ignacio Martinez, one of the training’s instructors, shared his motivation in wanting to teach these students: “I’m thrilled to have had the opportunity to instruct at the Solar Installation training program hosted by Green Careers Texas. Witnessing participants embrace new skills and knowledge, and the prospect of passing that on, is truly gratifying. Having completed the training myself, I now look forward to teaching others about solar and embarking on personal projects, including one for myself. A big shoutout to Tracy and Mark (McCollum), Ed (Wise), and Dylan (Brown), the lead trainers, for their invaluable support throughout.”
Green Careers Texas is hoping to change lives and communities for the better by offering opportunities in sustainability-focused jobs, particularly for those who’ve been overlooked in the past. These programs aren’t just empowering individuals, but also driving positive change in our local communities.
Tracy Wallace of Green Careers Texas explained, “We are thrilled to be working with Austin YouthWorks. Trainees who have experience with power tools and construction already are ideal to work with. The bonus is they each have a heart for service.”
As the solar industry continues to evolve, the need for a skilled and diverse workforce becomes increasingly important. By supporting organizations like TXSES and Green Careers Texas, we can all play a role in shaping a brighter, more sustainable future.
If you would like to hire one of these students, please reach out to Tracy Wallace at tracy@greencareerstexas.org.
Learn more about Green Careers Texas and how you can get involved at: greencareerstexas.org.
