Palatine Gets Nod For Solar Energy Initiatives

PALATINE, IL — The village of Palatine received a bronze designation from the National SolSmart program, which is funded by the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Energy Technologies Office, for efforts to encourage solar panel installations throughout the community. Village officials said his program designation will help promote sustainable energy and drive economic development by encouraging solar companies to do business in the village.

Steps taken by the village will help residents and businesses get affordable, clean and reliable electricity through solar energy. The city has streamlined their permitting process, trained staff on best solar practices and provided educational handouts regarding solar panel installations on their website, according to information in Palatine's most recent newsletter.

SolSmart awarded points based on the city's commitment to reducing barriers to solar energy development by making it easier and faster to go solar.

"We are honored to receive the SolSmart bronze designation and Special recognition award for our initiative to promote solar energy use within our community," said Harry Spila, director of community services for the village of Palatine. "We are committed to streamlining our processes to encourage growth in solar panel installation and to attract solar companies to do business in the village."