Mid City Times

The City of Fort Worth has been awarded a Silver designation by the national SolSmart program for its efforts in promoting affordable solar energy solutions locally. This recognition highlights Fort Worth's commitment to adopting best practices that support the growth of the solar market.

According to city officials, "As a SolSmart Silver designee, the City of Fort Worth has adopted nationally recognized best practices to advance solar market growth." The city's Environmental Services and Development Services departments collaborated with SolSmart's technical assistance team to enhance local understanding of solar energy, benefiting both residents and businesses.

To achieve this designation, Fort Worth has taken steps such as training permitting and inspection staff on best practices for solar energy systems. The Development Services Department clarified that solar energy installations are permitted by right in residential and commercial zones. Additionally, the Environmental Services Department launched a user-friendly website aimed at simplifying the process for residents, businesses, and nonprofit organizations to install solar systems.

SolSmart is an initiative led by the Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC) and the International City/County Management Association (ICMA), funded by the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Energy Technologies Office. Since its inception in 2016, over 500 cities, towns, counties, and regional organizations have received SolSmart designations.