What types of systems are eligible for SolarAPP+ review?
SolarAPP+ is designed to perform code-compliance checks for detached one- and two-family dwellings, as well as townhomes up to three stories in height that have a separate means of egress and an individual utility production meter. Accessory structures and accessory dwelling units (ADUs) may also be permitted through SolarAPP+, provided they do not exceed three stories above grade plane.
To see which systems are eligible, please refer to the following Eligibility Checklist;
SolarAPP+ Eligibility Electrical Characteristics:
- Service rating of ≤ 400A;
- Service disconnects and busbars rated ≤ 225A;
- Systems ≤ 38.4 kW provided they meet certain installation characteristics;
- ≤ 20 kwh limit for an individual battery;
- 80 kwh ESS aggregate capacity depending on the location the batteries are installed.
Systems that are currently not within the scope of SolarAPP+ include:
- Systems installed by Homeowners;
- Ground-mounted solar energy systems;
- Multi-Family solar energy systems;
- Commercial solar energy systems;
- Community and utility-scaled solar energy systems;
- Ballasted solar energy systems.
- Live/work units in townhomes that comply with Section 508.5 of the International Building Code;
- Owner-occupied lodging houses with five or fewer guestrooms;
- Care facilities with five or fewer persons receiving custodial and/or medical care within a dwelling;
- Care facilities with five or fewer persons receiving care within a single-family dwelling;
- Townhome with penetrations within 4 feet of the fire-rated property line on the roof;
- Multi-family structures, R-2 occupancies, and mobile homes governed by the Health and Safety Code and/or Housing and Urban Development regulations.
If a project is outside of the scope of SolarAPP+, the project will have to be submitted through the jurisdiction's traditional permitting process.