AB 2188 Requirements for Small Residential Rooftop Solar Energy Systems
Developed in 2015 and 2016, these recommendations relate to California law AB 2188
Note: This resource, and the related explanatory text below, were developed in 2015 and 2016. It is provided here as a reference document that may provide helpful historical context on how this issue was considered at that time. Please be aware that it may not be reflective of current best practices in this area and parts of the report may be out of date.
Developed in 2015 and 2016, these recommendations relate to California law AB 2188, also known as the Solar Permitting Efficiency Act. As the California Solar & Storage Association (CALSSA) explains, AB 2188 required local governments to adopt a solar ordinance by September 30, 2015 creating a streamlined permitting process that conforms to best practices for expeditious and efficient permitting of small residential rooftop solar systems.
These recommendations, the first published by SEAC, provide guidance on four key issues related to AB 2188:
Issue 1. Single Inspection Guidelines for Small Residential Rooftop Solar Energy Systems
This document addresses the following question: What should be considered sufficient to the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) in order to comply with the single inspection requirements of AB 2188? It outlines inspection procedures that were in use by several jurisdictions at the time and provides innovative recommendations that can be used to develop AB 2188-compliant single inspection procedures.
Issue 2. Methods to Reduce Follow-up Inspections for Small Residential Rooftop Solar Energy Systems
This document addresses the following question: What methods should be considered in order to reduce follow-up inspections for roof mounted PV systems without compromising safety or quality? It identifies several practical methods that AHJs and installers can apply.
Issue 3. Expedited PV Permitting Process Guidelines for Small Residential Rooftop Solar Energy Systems
This document addresses the fact that (at the time of publication) permitting processes varied widely across jurisdictions creating confusion for permit applicants. In addition, permitting processes that are not clearly defined or are overly complex create confusion and misunderstandings resulting in additional costs for both the applicants and reviewers in the processing of permit applications. It contains six recommendations to facilitate the submission of uniform, correct, and complete expedited PV permitting applications and reviews in a timely manner.
Issue 4. Educational Resources for Small Residential Rooftop Solar Energy Systems
The objective of this document is to provide educational resources to assist in achieving a safe and code-compliant PV installation in a timely and cost-effective manner. It highlights several best practices and resources and outlines the benefits of solar training to create a skilled and knowledgeable workforce.
