Bill > S05781

This bill requires local authorities (cities, towns, villages, counties) with populations over 5,000 residents to adopt a residential automated solar permitting platform by June 30, 2026. The platform must be capable of processing at least 75% of residential solar applications for existing construction, and must be available without initial or subscription fees. Authorities will be required to submit compliance reports to the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), detailing their platform's implementation, software used, and permit processing capabilities. These reports must include the number of permits issued through the automated platform, characteristics of solar systems, and a plan to increase platform usage if fewer than 75% of permits are processed electronically. The bill also mandates that these authorities provide an option for remote inspections via recorded video or photos for solar projects, which must be offered at no additional cost or delay compared to in-person inspections. Authorities that do not require permits for residential photovoltaic solar systems are exempt from these requirements. The residential automated solar permitting platform must be able to handle solar systems up to the maximum capacity allowed with a 200-amp main service disconnect, potentially including energy storage systems, main panel upgrades, and main breaker derate.

Budget and Finance, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S5781