Subject:
Title
Request approval to offer 2020 Solarize NOVA program
Body
EXPLANATION AND SUMMARY:
The Conservation and Sustainability Commission (CSC) brought Solarize NOVA, a solar purchasing program, to residents and businesses of Vienna beginning in 2015. The CSC would like to continue offering Solarize NOVA in the summer of 2020. Council adopted the Solarize NOVA resolution on February 23, 2015. Solarize NOVA is an initiative of the Northern Virginia Regional Commission (NVRC) and the nonprofit Local Energy Alliance Program (LEAP). Solarize NOVA is a one-stop shop for residents to learn more about solar power options for homes and businesses and helps facilitate installation and financing of these private projects. LEAP is determining the 2020 program dates but anticipate the campaign will run between June and September.
Participants in the program start by filling out an online web form at SolarizeNOVA.org. Participants are then provided free satellite assessments to determine a property’s suitability for solar. Suitable participants provide electric bills to LEAP, which begins the sizing and design process. Solar installers will use this information to provide proposals and quotes for installation.
The CSC will host a Solarize NOVA Virtual Information Session to provide interested participants with additional information and answer any community questions. Since 2015, 29 Solarize contracts have been signed in Vienna for over 230 kW of power. Vienna is the highest zip code for solar kW within the Solarize NOVA campaign.
Benefits of the program include:
• free solar site assessments
• lower-than-ever solar panel pricing and affordable financing
• qualified local solar installers and high-performance systems
• free home energy inspections - to make your solar power go further
• community workshops and support
• a great investment in clean energy
Strategic Plan Initiative: Vienna is an environmentally sustainable community
Departmental Recommendation: The public works director recommends approval for offering the Solarize NOVA program during spring 2020.
Finance Recommendation:
Purchasing Recommendation:
Town Attorney Recommendation: Town Council may continue to support the Solarize NOVA program in its discretion.
Town Manager's Recommendation: I recommend the Town Council approve the spring 2020 Solarize NOVA program and authorize staff and the CSC to move forward with implementation, as presented.
Cost and Financing: N/A
Account Number: N/A
Decision Needed by This date: 06/15/2020
PROPOSED/SUGGESTED MOTION
Recommended Action
"I move to approve the spring 2020 Solarize NOVA program and authorize staff and the CSC to move forward with implementation.”
Or
Other action deemed necessary by Council.