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.