09/23/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/23/2024 09:20
Newly integrated program supported by DOE will help local governments expand distributed solar and wind energy, as well as electric vehicle charging
The International City/County Management Association (ICMA) and Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC) today launched Energy Ready, a new integrated effort funded by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) that supports local governments with free technical assistance and recognizes their improvements in planning, zoning, and for permitting distributed energy generation. Announced at the annual ICMA Conference, Energy Ready builds on the success of SolSmart, which helps communities reduce barriers to solar energy access. Energy Ready is launching today as a coordinated effort that brings together SolSmart, the new Charging Smart program, and the forthcoming Distributed Wind Smart program, which will be funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
"Hundreds of communities across the country have saved time and money thanks to the successful SolSmart program," said Jeff Marootian, principal deputy assistant secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy at DOE. "DOE is excited to support the expansion of this model to EV charging and distributed wind, making it easier for communities to adopt the technologies that are right for them. By reducing barriers to deployment, Energy Ready will help more Americans cut energy costs and increase efficiencies and energy independence."
Energy Ready will bring three programs together, making it easier for local governments to analyze and potentially streamline efforts across multiple energy technologies. Communities can be designated as bronze, silver, gold, or platinum based on the steps they take to follow best practices that improve local processes and cut red tape.
ICMA and IREC expect to roll out the new designations for Charging Smart and Distributed Wind Smart in early 2025. Learn more about Energy Ready and apply for free SolSmart technical assistance today.