Sep 30 - Arizona Daily Star

Tucson already has abundant solar energy, and now city residents could get a hand to help pay for the equipment needed to use it.

Tucsonans putting solar-energy systems in new buildings, or retrofitting existing ones to make use of solar, could receive up to $1,000 in building permit credits under a plan the City Council will consider Tuesday.

In a memo sent to the council last week, Deputy City Manager Mike Letcher advises setting aside $200,000 to offset the loss of permit fees from those who take advantage of the credit.

The plan is for an 18-month trial program. Formal approval could come as soon as Sept 27.

The proposal is a response to council requests for ways to help residents increase their use of solar power.

Putting in a solar system is often more expensive initially than linking to a usual power source.

The proposal would allow those installing solar electric systems, solar domestic water and space heating or solar air conditioning to get a credit that can be applied to their building permit.

New projects would qualify for a $1,000 credit. Those retrofitting an existing building would get a building permit credit equal to the actual permit fee, up to $1,000.

Permit fees vary widely because they are based on the value of the construction project and the number of mechanical and electrical items installed.

Solar systems would have to meet a minimum electrical output standard of at least 1,500 kilowatt-hours, or 51 therms, a year to be eligible.

The $200,000 would be divided equally between new construction and existing structures.

If you go:

The City Council meets Tuesday, in a study session at 3:30 p.m. followed by a regular meeting at 5:30 p.m., at City Hall, 255 W. Alameda St. The discussion of solar energy credits is not a public hearing.

* Contact reporter Sarah Garrecht Gassen at 573-4240 or sgassen@azstarnet.com .