Coventry, Connecticut – Quietly sustainable
Businessview Magazine
- Created a streamlined process to approve certain solar permit applications over the counter
- Hosted a community “Solarize” campaign, Solarize Coventry, allowing residents to benefit from group discounts and affordable solar financing
- Provided local incentives for solar PV via a property tax exemption
- Demonstrated that the community’s installed per capita capacity, at 141 watts/person as of June 2017, is above top 20% of states (>99 watts/person)
- Created an online permitting checklist, increasing transparency for community members and solar installers
- Reviewed local zoning codes and identified restrictions that intentionally or unintentionally prohibit solar PV development
- Allowed solar by-right accessory use in all zones (so solar installations don’t require special permits or hearings)
- Cross-trained both inspection and permitting staff on solar PV
- Provided a streamlined permitting pathway for small PV systems
The Town of Coventry has a history of embracing and promoting solar energy for our residents and businesses, and within our own municipal facilities. We are extremely proud that our efforts to reduce barriers to solar energy have earned our town the SolSmart Gold designation, and we look forward to continued initiatives to deliver solar resources to our community.”
– John A. Elsesser, Town Manager
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