Community Corner
Fremont Is The First City In The Nation To Receive Coveted Designation
Fremont received Platinum Designation for solar power leadership from a US Dept. of Energy program.
FREMONT, CA — Fremont is the first city in the nation to receive a Platinum Designation for advancing solar energy. The distinction is a result of the national SolSmart program, recognizing exceptional achievements in advancing solar energy use at the local level.
Fremont is one of over 500 cities, towns, and regional organizations that have achieved SolSmart designation for their solar energy leadership but is the first to achieve the new Platinum level.
"Fremont’s achievement of the SolSmart Platinum designation marks a significant milestone in our commitment to a sustainable and clean energy future," said Fremont Mayor Lily Mei. "By actively promoting the adoption of renewable energy and streamlining the solar permitting process, we are empowering our community to reduce our community-wide greenhouse gas emissions and advancing our vision towards a climate ready Fremont. This remarkable designation is a credit not only to our dedicated City staff but also to the unwavering commitment and active participation of our incredible community. Together, we stand proud of this extraordinary achievement, which showcases the collective effort and shared vision of a brighter, greener future for all."
Fremont's achievements include —
- Adoption of instant solar permitting through the SolarAPP+ program.
- Posted public metrics and online resources for community members interested in installing solar.
- Installed solar systems on multiple City-owned properties.
- Formed community partnerships to equitably expand solar in the city by leveraging funds from foundations and state government. That included partnerships with affordable housing developers and groups such as ICLEI Local Governments for Sustainability and Habitat for Humanity East Bay/Silicon Valley.
SolSmart is a U.S. Department of Energy program led by the International City/County Management Association (ICMA) and the Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC).
"DOE would like to congratulate the city of Fremont on being the first-ever SolSmart platinum designee and commend the city for prioritizing clean energy for its residents, including automated permitting with the adoption of SolarAPP+," said Dr. Becca Jones-Albertus, Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary for Renewable Energy at the U.S. Department of Energy. "DOE encourages cities throughout the United States to take advantage of the assistance SolSmart provides to enable American homes and businesses to better access affordable and clean solar energy."
SolSmart offers free technical assistance to help local governments advance solar energy deployment.
"Fremont has embraced best practices that make it faster, easier, and more affordable to go solar," said Brandy O’Quinn, Program Director—SolSmart at IREC. "Their focus on equity as part of the clean energy transition, including creative partnerships that are improving the lives of all residents, makes them stand out as a national leader."
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