Mayor Gallego, Council Take Decisive Action On Climate

Press release from the City of Phoenix:

June 14, 2021

The City of Phoenix continues to lead in clean energy by adopting new rules to make it easier and more cost-effective for residents to install solar power.

During its formal meeting today, the Phoenix City Council voted to amend the city’s fire code and fee structure. Phoenix residents are enthusiastically installing solar on homes and buildings, so much so that the city expects the number of solar permits to double. This code change is keeping up with the increased demand by giving homeowners the chance to use more of their roof space, making it easier for companies to install the photovoltaic cells. Council also approved additional funding for vehicles, supplies, and five new positions for a new energy system inspection program. This program will create a dedicated team to review and inspect photovoltaic and energy storage systems.

“We are continuously creating solutions that allow us to serve our residents efficiently and do our part to facilitate the clean energy transition. Today’s votes will advance solar in Phoenix and residents will have more usable space to implement solar, fostering increased renewable energy generation,” said Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego. “Phoenix is a national leader for solar on city facilities. It will be great to see this on more neighborhood rooftops!”

The new rules will ensure the City of Phoenix is utilizing a progressive code that reflects the current evolution of building materials, technologies, and industry practice to provide safety and reduce the cost of construction and compliance.

Phoenix is already a leader in solar energy. In Environment America’s 2020 Shining Cities report, Phoenix ranked fourth in total solar installed. The City values the solar energy industry and associated companies who call Phoenix home.

Solar contractors applauded the new rules.

“Any time public and private entities can come together and share knowledge and field experience, it is a win for city residents. This is a small but mighty change and a win for Phoenix homeowners who want more solar power,” said Joy Seitz, CEO, American Solar & Roofing.

This press release was produced by the City of Phoenix. The views expressed here are the author's own.