S.B. 1289 Summary

• Prohibits building permits for new single-family dwellings that are part of a development of 20 or more dwellings without a rooftop solar energy generation system, effective January 1, 2022, unless a variance is granted.

• Allows variances if a licensed architect or electrical engineer attests that installation is impracticable due to poor solar resources, cost-prohibitive based on life cycle cost-benefit analysis (not exceeding 20 years), or if an alternative renewable energy technology system is substituted as the primary electricity source.

• Requires the coordinator to publicize variance applications within 7 calendar days of receipt and disposition of applications within 7 calendar days of determination; variances deemed approved if not denied within 60 working days.

• Authorizes the director of business, economic development, and tourism to adopt rules and impose fees to cover variance administration costs, with fees deposited into the energy security special fund.

• Allows counties to establish their own procedures and standards for implementation and does not preclude participation in utility demand-side management or public benefits fee programs.