Have trouble navigating the solar photovoltaic (PV) permit process for solar system installations? The process is stressful, can take a lot of time, and at times, have you running in circles. Knobelsdorff Enterprises (KE) has more than 30 years of experience navigating the solar permit process, ensuring solar designs are complete and follow all AHJ requirements, so we can finish our projects on time and within budget.
“Developers constantly complain about how long the solar permit process can take,” said Jeff Schrimpf, KE general manager, energy. “Before installing a solar photovoltaic system, an electrical, structure/building, and a stormwater permit is required by the local JHA. Some jurisdictions also require site driveway permits, bonds, watershed permits, as well as wetland permits, depending on the asset location.” And these permits vary state-to-state, county-to-county, town-to-town.
The most important step in getting a solar permit is to understand what tasks are required to receive the permit. Schrimpf recommends developers start considering permits in the design phase, working closely with a qualified and experienced design engineer. “Your workflow processes and design can change if you don’t understand and follow local CUP (Conditional Use Permit) requirements. CUPs include instructions on work times, screening requirements, special design requirements, and more,” said Schrimpf.
“We’ve found building a relationship with these jurisdictions helps to expedite the process,” said Schrimpf. “We work one-on-one with the local jurisdictions that establish and set requirements for permitting. By meeting with the local government bodies, we get a good understanding of what is required to quickly receive the permit.”
When you are ready to submit your permit request to the local jurisdiction, ensure you have everything required and requested to the standards of the entity. “They (local jurisdiction) want a clean, clear package with everything requested before they will review and approve the permit. If the information has missing information or does not address conditions outlined in the CUP, the AHJ will reject the submission or request additional information to review, delaying your project,” explained Schrimpf.
“Experience is key,” said Schrimpf. Companies such as KE understand the importance of navigating the solar permit process, so we can receive the permits on the first submission to the JHA. “Permits are only a small part of the superior value KE brings to our projects. KE is also a leader in solar installation and operation and maintenance services,” said Schrimpf. “As an electrical, engineering, and energy company under one roof, we can perform EPC (engineering, procurement, and construction) services, and continue to work with our customers with startup, commissioning and O&M services.” KE can handle all facets of work on a solar project, including civil, structural, electrical, and interconnecting with the electric utility.
Click here for more information on how KE can help you navigate the solar permit process.