News

Aug 29, 2023

Village Of Deerfield Reduces Solar Panel Permit Fees

Press release from the Village of Deerfield: July 21, 2023 The Deerfield Village Board has taken another step towards promoting renewable energy by implementing a 50% reduction in the base permit fee

Press release from the Village of Deerfield:

July 21, 2023

The Deerfield Village Board has taken another step towards promoting renewable energy by implementing a 50% reduction in the base permit fee for solar panel installations. This initiative is in line with the Village's 2022 Climate Action Report, which sets ambitious targets to reduce carbon emissions by 45% by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.

The revised permit fee for solar panel installations has been lowered from $18 per $1,000 of estimated construction costs to a rate of $9 per $1,000. It's important to note that additional fees, such as inspection fees, plan review fees, and infrastructure impact fees, may still apply.

The reduction in solar permit fees not only provides financial relief to residents, but also plays a vital role in achieving the SolSmart designation benchmark, which certifies that the Village is following best practices that encourage the growth of solar energy at the local level. Furthermore, this policy change aligns with the Village's commitment to transitioning to 100% renewable energy sources by 2030, as outlined in the 2022 Climate Action Report.

Residents of Deerfield who have installed solar panels now have the opportunity to participate in the Illinois Solar Tour, scheduled for September. This event allows homeowners and businesses to share their firsthand experiences with residential rooftop solar panels with their neighbors. To sign up for the tour and learn more about it, please visit www.illinoissolar.org. Additionally, the Village is actively exploring the feasibility of installing solar panels on both Village-owned properties and potential third-party locations.

Deerfield has witnessed a notable increase in solar energy usage and awareness, thanks to the successful implementation of the Community Solar Program and educational campaigns. Through the Northshore Electric Aggregation Consortium, the Village has seen 113 residents benefiting from 100% solar energy at a discounted rate of 20% compared to the standard ComEd rate, a great option for residents who do not want to or cannot install solar panels on their house. This achievement sets Deerfield apart as the community with the highest participation in the Consortium. For more information, please visit www.northshorecommunitysolar.com.

This press release was produced by the Village of Deerfield. The views expressed here are the author’s own.