WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman John Garamendi (D-Fairfield, CA) applauds the Contra Costa Economic Partnership on being awarded a Department of Energy grant through the 2011 Sun Shot Rooftop Solar Challenge (DOE news release).

Solar panel industries face a serious problem across the country and in Contra Costa County specifically. Inconsistent and conflicting building codes among 19 cities, multiple fire districts, and Contra Costa County make it expensive and time consuming to install solar systems. According to a report released earlier this year, local permitting and inspection processes alone add about $.50 per watt, or $2,500 per residential installation nationwide.

The Department of Energy awarded funds will be used to develop a region-wide solar permitting process that encourages local jurisdictions to standardize permit requirements so they are easily understood, consistent, timely and cost effective. Successful implementation will serve as a best practice model for statewide adoption.

A copy of the Congressman’s letter of support for this project is linked here and included below.

"I am proud to have supported the Contra Costa Economic Partnership application for the Department of Energy SunShot program grant, and I congratulate them on winning the award," said Congressman John Garamendi. "This program will move our country one step closer to energy independence. By streamlining the permit process, the Economic Partnership will cultivate an environment for businesses to grow and create jobs in our community."

Garamendi added, "Smart public-private partnerships like this will help us to Make It Locally and Make It In America."

Since 2009, jobs in the solar energy industry have doubled to 100,000 across the country. One-quarter, 25,000, of these jobs are in California.

California is home to 320,000 clean energy jobs out of a total of 2.7 million nationwide.

As a California state legislator, Garamendi authored the first alternative energy tax credit in the nation.

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August 24, 2011

Secretary Steven Chu

U.S. Department of Energy

SunShot Initiative and Solar Energy Technologies Program

1000 Independence Avenue, SW

Washington, DC, 20585

Dear Secretary Chu:

The Contra Costa Economic Partnership (CCEP) has requested my support for their application for funding under the Department of Energy’s SunShot Initiative: Rooftop Solar Challenge to Induce Market Transformation program.

I understand that the CCEP will partner with local governments, industry, and stakeholders in a three phased project to improve market conditions for solar PV permitting in Contra Costa, Alameda, and Solano counties. I understand that these funds will enable the CCEP to develop and implement a transparent, consistent, and expedient permitting and interconnection process for residential and commercial rooftop PV systems that can eliminate waste and variability across jurisdictions, while meeting code and safety requirements. I am aware that the CCEP is dedicated to creating jobs and improving the quality of life in Contra Costa and I recognize the importance of streamlining permit and interconnection processes to support the growing solar PV industry.

I support this application and hope that the CCEP’s grant request will be given full and fair consideration consistent with applicable laws and regulations. I understand that this funding would enable the CCEP to support the growth of the solar PV industry in Contra Costa and further their commitment to creating jobs for local residents.

Should you have further questions, please feel free to contact my Walnut Creek district office at 925-932-8899.

Sincerely,

JOHN GARAMENDI

Member of Congress, CA-10