The solar task force was formed in March 2023 with the objective of improving permitting processes for PV, battery and solar thermal projects. The task force meets monthly and is led by Deputy Director Jiro Sumada and includes representatives from the Honolulu DPP, HSEA, Hawaiian Electric, the Hawaii State Energy Office, solar contractors, and solar financing and equipment manufacturers.
Prompted by the increasingly lengthy process of obtaining building permits, exacerbated by the challenges posed by COVID-19, Director Dawn Takeuchi recognized an opportunity to expedite the process specifically for PV permit applications. With solar permits representing a substantial portion of all applications, the formation of the Solar Task Force was deemed essential to address the bottleneck.
Key figures from RevoluSun, including David Gorman and members of the Operations team, actively participate in the monthly task force meetings led by Deputy Director Jiro Sumada. Together with representatives from other solar contractors and industry professionals, they collaborate on strategies to enhance efficiency and optimize processes.
The collaborative efforts of the Solar Task Force have yielded remarkable achievements. Notable milestones include the optimization of the ePlans process, enhancements to the automated BOT prescreen, expansion of the pre-approved online permitting system, and streamlining of commercial permit approvals. Particularly significant is the pilot pre-certification process for townhome solar permits, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at making solar energy more accessible to this demographic.
The impact of these efforts on townhome solar permit processes is profound. By simplifying the permitting process, the task force is facilitating greater adoption of solar energy among townhome communities, thus advancing Hawaii’s sustainability goals. This proactive approach underscores the task force’s commitment to innovation and community-focused solutions in the renewable energy sector.
As Hawaii continues its journey towards a greener future, initiatives like the Solar Task Force exemplify the pivotal role played by collaboration and innovation in driving positive change.
For more information, visit revolusun.com
