Jan. 21, 2025

Apply now: Grants to help local governments adopt automated solar permit software

Commerce is now accepting applications to support cities and counties adopt automated permit processing software for residential solar

Grants of $20,000 or more will help building departments save time and money on permit review and accelerate solar installation at the local level.

Commerce plans to award 28 grants totaling $570,000 to local governments to aid in adopting SolarAPP+, free software developed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory that automatically processes and issues permits for simple solar-related projects. This software allows building department staff to clear permit backlogs and free up time to work on complex projects.

Timeline

Applications will be open for three weeks. Commerce will analyze applicant submissions after applications close then immediately begin awarding grants and negotiating contracts.

• Jan. 21, 2025: Application opens
• Jan. 23, 2025: Pre-application conference at 2:00 p.m. PT

Register

• Feb. 11, 2025: Completed applications must be submitted by 12:00 p.m. (noon) PT
• Feb.14, 2025: Awardees and non-awardees notified
• March 14, 2025: Last day to execute grant agreements
• March-June, 2025: Project activities
• June 30, 2025: Last day for program expenditures

How to apply

See the program documents on Box for application instructions and materials, grant calculation criteria, conference slides and recordings, and weekly Q&A documents. You can also visit the Request for Application webpage for more information. 

Applications are open to city and county governments. Commerce will prioritize grants based on permit workload and estimated costs to adopt the software.

Questions?

Contact [email protected] and check the EPIC webpage for updates.

These programs are funded by Washington’s Climate Commitment Act (CCA). The CCA supports Washington’s climate action efforts by putting cap-and-invest dollars to work reducing climate pollution, creating jobs, and improving public health. Information about the CCA is available at www.climate.wa.gov.

About Commerce

Commerce works with local governments, businesses, community-based organizations and tribes to strengthen communities. The department’s diverse portfolio of more than 100 programs and effective public and private partnerships promote sustainable community and economic development to help all Washingtonians thrive. For more information, visit http://www.commerce.wa.gov. For information on locating or expanding a business in Washington, visit choosewashingtonstate.com.

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