OKC Obtains Solar Energy Growth Recognition

Oklahoma City has been recognized nationally for its efforts to promote solar energy.

The city has been awarded a bronze designation by SolSmart, a program funded by the U.S. Department of Energy Sunshot Initiative. The honor was for the city’s efforts in making it easier for people to choose solar energy options.

“Solar energy is a job creation opportunity,” said City Sustainability Manager, T.O. Bowman. “As an energy industry capital, it’s important for us to continue the growth in solar jobs in Oklahoma City.

He said solar jobs in Oklahoma City grew by 106 percent from 2015 to 2016.

In order to achieve the bronze designation, local governments had to take steps to reduce soft costs involved in the installation of a solar energy system.

Oklahoma City’s Sustainability Office added permitting information to okc.gov to clarify the process for a solar installation, reviewed City code affecting solar energy, led discussions on smart rate design and potential legislation and provided staff training.

SolSmart was launched in April 2016 and has a goal of designating 300 communities during the three-year federally funded program.