Pasadena Lights Up the Path to Solar Energy: Here’s How They’re Making It Easier for You
The City of Pasadena is pulling out all the stops to make solar energy an easy and attractive option for its residents. On Tuesday, October 24, officials from Pasadena Water and Power (PWP) will present an in-depth look at the city’s solar initiatives, walking the City Council’s Municipal Services Committee through the program’s past, present, and future.
Initiated in 2008, the city’s Solar Program follows the Net Energy Metering (NEM) principle, offering credits to residents for excess electricity they pump back into the grid. This nifty feature not only helps to offset electricity costs, but it also allows customers to calibrate their solar setups based on past energy use.
Over the years, the program has seen a surge in interest and participation. In 2013, the application process shifted online with the launch of PowerClerk 1.0, moving away from a paper-based system. Fast forward to 2022, and the city is boasting a solar capacity of a whopping 23.4 megawatts, mainly in the residential sector, which makes up 96% of all installations.
The solar installation process has been fine-tuned to include various steps for quality assurance: initial review by PWP, permit acquisition, construction, inspections, and finally, meter installation and Permission to Operate (PTO) request.
But the city didn’t just rest on its laurels; instead, it introduced several key enhancements in 2022. Cue the Pasadena SolarApp Express: an upgraded online application process designed to speed up installations for single-family homes and Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). Also, the fire inspection process for solar photovoltaic installations has been streamlined, reducing the turnaround time.
As if that wasn’t enough, PWP has also launched a comprehensive guide to arm customers with all they need to know about going solar — from selecting a contractor to understanding the different contract types and how their bills will change.
The PWP website has been spruced up to include a more user-friendly landing page, updated FAQs, and revised application instructions. So, for those considering making the solar switch, now is the perfect time. Head over to PWP’s updated website for all the info you need!
And for those keen on diving deep into the details, don’t miss the Municipal Services Committee meeting at 4 p.m. at City Hall on Tuesday. It’s where the city’s solar future is sure to shine bright!
