#ICYMI: DOE cuts red tape for own-use solar systems

The Department of Energy (DOE) has streamlined the permitting processes for small electricity consumers wanting to invest in and tap solar power systems.

DOE cuts red tape for own-use solar systems

Faster permitting processes for solar systems

In its circular, the agency said it had directed all distribution utilities to remove "administrative barriers" to the deployment of small-scale solar generation systems. These so-called barriers include pre-installation clearances, technical permits and inspection fees.

There is a need to issue a policy that supports the participation of small-scale end-users in the deployment of RE technologies by providing a streamlined regulatory approach that complements the existing net-metering framework and other consumer choice programs, the DOE said.

The new guidelines cover all self-generating facilities (SGFs), microsolar systems (MSS) and zero-export energy systems (ZESS), including those used by households and medical facilities.

The DOE said qualified users who want to use SGFs or ZESS are no longer required to obtain a certificate of compliance (COC) from the Energy Regulatory Commission. The commission, however, still has the authority to set and enforce technical and commercial guidelines.

MSS users also do not need a building permit or a COC.

The government also noted some safety protocols, such as requiring the users of these technologies to have an automatic anti-islanding disconnection safety mechanism, ensuring the system will be offline during outages.

This move would also support the government’s ambitious target of scaling up renewables' share in the electricity generation mix from the current 25 percent to 35 percent by 2030.

Via: Inquirer