Local Government – Building Permits for Residential Solar Energy and Residential Energy Storage Systems – Required Platform and Inspections
Impact
The legislation impacts state laws by requiring local governments to comply with specific protocols for the approval of residential solar and energy systems. It allows remote inspections, which can reduce local governments’ administrative burdens and promote faster permit approvals. Through these changes, the bill is expected to foster an environment supportive of renewable energy growth and infrastructural upgrades in residential settings.
Summary
House Bill 1265 mandates the implementation of the SolarAPP+ web-based platform for tracking and approving building permits related to residential solar energy systems and energy storage systems. This bill requires counties and municipalities to adopt standard procedures for inspections associated with these permits by August 1, 2025. It aims to streamline the permitting process, thereby encouraging the adoption of solar technologies and improving overall efficiency in permit processing.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise mainly concerning the responsibilities placed on local governments and the feasibility of remote inspections. There may be concerns about the limitations this bill places on local control over building regulations and whether the transition to a standardized digital platform can adequately serve diverse communities, especially those with varying levels of technological resource availability. Additionally, the potential requirements for compliance certification when applying for funding from the Maryland Energy Administration pose a burden that some local authorities might find challenging to meet.