Large Scale Solar and Battery Storage Toolkit

The U.S. is experiencing dramatic electricity load growth due to rapid deployment of data centers, crypto mining, electrification, and large new industrial projects. Large-scale solar offers one way to meet load growth needs while providing financial resources to the community. This toolkit offers insights into best practices for large-scale solar, focusing on public engagement, planning, permitting, and other topics.

Officials who understand the key forces driving demand for large-scale solar development are better positioned to use their authority to influence the extent and nature of large-scale development in the communities they serve. - Solar@Scale, A Local Government Guidebook for Improving Large-Scale Solar Development Outcomes, 3^rd Edition.

In this toolkit, you will learn how to build the groundwork for success before solar projects even begin. By optimizing zoning, permitting, and inspection; ensuring conservation of farmland; and determining relevant authorities, local governments can clarify the development processes while addressing the concerns of businesses and residents alike. This guide also outlines steps communities can take to benefit financially and shape the long-term life of the development.

To go deeper, view our Large-Scale Solar: Addressing Community Concerns webpage for common questions about large-scale solar installations, and ways to address them. There are also free resources available for the SolSmart program, a free initiative co-led by the Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC).

This toolkit is made possible through the generous donation by Klingenstein Philanthropies and created by IREC in partnership with Camelot Energy and other stakeholders.