By Joe Bachman
Multimedia Editor

STEVENS POINT — Planning officials took a step towards SolSmart status on Monday, July 1.

The ordinance amendment will make it easier for residents to attain solar energy, streamlining the process of installing solar systems throughout the city. Planning members are hoping to receive SolSmart designation by this year.

“The program is essentially created to break down barriers and to encourage solar, whether it’s solar on individual parcels, or larger establishments,” said Associate Planner / Zoning Administrator Kyle Kearns.

Currently, there is no identification of solar energy in the zoning code, which the passed ordinance amendment will change.

“In order to receive gold status we’ve got to identify solar as a use in the zoning code and we have to provide certain definitions.” said Kearns.

All in all, the move encourages solar energy within the community. Since 2016, over 250 cities and counties have achieved SolSmart status. The SolSmart program helps foster the development of solar markets.

Currently, only one Central Wisconsin city is certified SolSmart gold status, which is Wisconsin Rapids.