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HomeMy WebLinkAboutRES-2015-046 Resolution of Support for Small Solar RES-2015-046 / e, ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS Resolution of Support for Small Solar Whereas, the widespread adoption of solar technology would reduce the necessity to build additional nuclear or fossil-fuel generating plants with their attendant problems; and Whereas, the County has endorsed the development of a pilot solar photovoltaic system within its own County facilities; and Whereas, the County's 2030 Comprehensive Plan establishes several goals and objectives encouraging the development of alternative energy sources in accordance with applicable land use regulations; and Whereas, the price of small residential solar voltaic arrays has recently fallen and kits containing all of the necessary electrical components have become readily available, and Whereas, recent local efforts to promote the development of small residential solar have been successful, including the Solarize Orange project which has resulted in new solar installations on over 150 homes and small businesses across Orange County in 2014 and 2015; and Whereas, the average residential solar array installed in Orange County over the past 2 years is approximately 5 kilowatts, and solar installations up to 20 kilowatts are allowed as an accessory use for a residential property; and Whereas, Orange County has previously adopted comprehensive land use regulations in order to distinguish the permit submittal and review process for small residential solar projects and large, commercial, solar utility operations in an effort to further promote the development of small residential solar facilities; and Whereas, the County wishes to empower the residents of Orange County to take advantage of these recent advances in this promising renewable energy technology; Now Therefore, we, the Orange County Board of Commissioners, declare our support for this technology and direct the County Manager and staff to encourage and facilitate its adoption by individual residents. This 15th day of September, 2015. Attest: A_ Donna Wer, Clerk to the Board EarKee, Chair Orange County Board of Commissioners