Tucson Standard

WASHINGTON – U.S. Representative Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ-06) has joined a bipartisan group of lawmakers in introducing the Streamlining Home Installations of New Energies (SHINE) Act (H.R. 5997). The bill aims to streamline the permitting process for residential solar projects and encourage the adoption of renewable energy systems.

The SHINE Act directs the Department of Energy (DOE) to collaborate with state and local governments to promote and facilitate the use of SolarAPP+, an online tool developed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. SolarAPP+ automates the permitting and approval process for residential renewable energy systems.

Representative Ciscomani, along with his colleagues Representative Susie Lee (D-NV-03) and Congressman Paul Tonko (D-NY-20), introduced the bill. In a statement, Ciscomani highlighted the importance of providing Arizonans with reliable and affordable access to solar energy. He stated, "The SHINE Act works to cut bureaucratic red tape and streamline the permitting process for homeowners seeking to adopt solar energy systems, encouraging the use of this abundant, sustainable energy source."

Representative Lee emphasized the need to address permitting delays for rooftop solar and other residential energy systems. She stated, "The SHINE Act is a launchpad for a proven permitting approach that will cut delays, save homeowners money, boost our small businesses, and maximize government efficiency — all at minimal expense to the taxpayer. That's what I call a bipartisan no-brainer."

Congressman Tonko also voiced his support for the SHINE Act, highlighting the opportunities presented by rooftop solar and distributed energy resources. He stated, "I am proud to support the SHINE Act to build upon DOE's proven efforts to break down these barriers to ensure more efficient, cost-effective solar deployment. I look forward to working with my colleagues to advance this bipartisan, commonsense legislation."

Companion legislation has been introduced in the Senate by U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Alex Padilla (D-CA), and Ron Wyden (D-OR). The SHINE Act has gained support from various organizations, including the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), Advanced Energy United (AEU), GRID Alternatives, Solar United Neighbors Action, Vote Solar, and several solar energy companies.

Carla Blackwell, the Development Services Director for Pima County, AZ, spoke about the success of SolarAPP+ in the City of Tucson and Pima County. She stated, "SolarAPP+ has been an effective tool for the City of Tucson and Pima County to promote solar installation in our region. It ushered in same-day permitting for the solar industry and saves our plan review staff time to spend on other projects. We hope other jurisdictions will share our success by adopting SolarAPP+ and applaud the legislative efforts to give critical assistance to expand this program."

The SHINE Act aims to simplify the process of installing residential solar energy systems, making it more accessible and cost-effective for homeowners. By streamlining permitting and approvals, the bill seeks to encourage the use of solar energy and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Click this link to access more information: https://ciscomani.house.gov/media/press-releases/ciscomani-joins-bipartisan-bill-streamline-residential-access-solar-energy