The initiative has the following objectives for the 2007 - 2015 period:
- Development of a comprehensive city government approach to solar implementation, involving key stakeholders, utilities, and private partners
- Installation of large-scale solar plants and systems
- Reduction of market barriers (e.g., streamlining solar-friendly permitting and zoning)
- Creation of city-level solar incentives (e.g., rebates, financial assistance, tax credits, property tax abatements, and/or tax incentives to solar manufacturers who locate in the city.)
- Increase in public awareness through promotions and citywide education
- Inclusion of renewable energy curriculum material in the public schools
- Development of program activities that serve as a model for other cities
- Integration of solar energy into city planning and emergency preparedness plans (e.g., schools as shelters)
The initiative has selected the following 13 cities as Solar America Cities:
- Ann Arbor, MI
- Austin, TX
- Berkeley, CA
- Boston, MA
- Madison, WI
- New Orleans, LA
- New York City, NY
- Pittsburgh, PA
- Portland, OR
- Salt Lake City, UT
- San Diego, CA
- San Francisco, CA
- Tucson, AZ
The cities were recognized by the DOE as partners highly committed to solar technology adoption at the local level. The award will engage city governments and support their innovative efforts through funding and technical assistance.
The selected cities are each eligible for up to $200,000 in DOE financial assistance. With a 50% cost share requirements, this brings the FY 2007 total project value to approximately $5 million. Approximately $2 million in technical assistance is available to support projects in FY 2007 with an additional $600,000 in 2008. DOE will distribute the funds as needed among the cities.
DOE will provide technical assistance for:
- City planning
- Technology selection
- Project financing
- Building codes
- Architectural review
- Community outreach
Solar technologies promoted by Solar America Cities include solar PV, concentrating solar power, and solar water/air heating technologies.
Congratulations to all the winning cities!
For additional information:
www.energy.gov
