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Getting Started with Solar

 

This webpage represents a collection of solar resources for the community. The City of Sheboygan is working to obtain a Department of Energy SolSmart designation. The City’s goals can be found on the Solar Statement.

 

Solar Benefits

Solar energy uses a renewable energy source – the sun – and provides many benefits for individuals and the community. It improves environmental quality by reducing carbon emissions and air pollution, supports about 2,000 jobs and over 166 companies in Wisconsin (SEIA), saves money on energy costs as the price continues to drop from increasing demand and technological developments, and adds electric grid resilience during peak demand and other stresses to the system.

 

Ordinance, Permitting, & Process

Solar installation must be in compliance with State Statutes, including §66.0401 and §66.0403. Refer to state statutes for more information. Small solar PV projects (10kW or less) have a turnaround time of less than 3 business days. Application forms and current fees can be found on the building inspection webpage.

 

Solar Maps

  • Investigate your property’s rooftop solar potential by checking out Project Sunroof
  • PV Watts Calculator: Ground and Roof Analysis App developed by the National Renewable Energy Lab.
  • Solar Project Builder – Solar Financial Model Simulator developed by the Midwest Renewable Energy Association with support from the US Department of Energy.

 

Find a Contractor

The Solar Energy Industries Association’s website also provides a map of area contractors.

 

Solar by Zoning District

Solar arrays are considered accessory use in all zoning districts and solar farms are considered conditional use in all zoning districts. In some instances, a solar array may be considered a conditional use.

 

Solar PV Permitting Checklist

Must be completed as part of the building or electrical permit application process:

  1. Small solar PV projects (15kW or less) require a Streamlined Solar Permitting Checklist
  2. Site Plan
  3. One-Line Electrical Diagram

 

Solar Finance, Incentive, and Installer Resources