Streamlining Photovoltaic Deployment: The Role of Local Governments in Reducing Soft Costs

Steep declines in photovoltaic (PV) technology prices have directed attention to the so-called soft costs associated with PV deployment. This paper focuses on one element of soft costs: those that arise from local permitting and inspection processes typically being handled by municipalities. Based on a literature review, the paper compares the status of local PV permitting in the US and Germany. Results show the significant potential for municipalities to streamline local permit procedures, a process that can be facilitated by higher-level governance rules, standardizing bodies, and other solar advocacy coalitions.