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Governor Eric J. Holcomb
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Diversifying the energy portfolio of Northwest Indiana with renewables has many potential economic and environmental benefits for the region.  One potentially untapped resource is solar.  Northwest Indiana has significant potential for solar energy development, 25 – 50% more than Germany, which is the world leader in solar electricity generation. Solar manufacturing and installation has already created over one hundred jobs in Northwest Indiana. This page contains general information on how Solar Photovoltaics (Solar PV) work, information for residents considering solar, and guidance for communities looking to improve their solar readiness and encourage solar development.

NIRPC has developed this website and materials through a Department of Energy Sunshot Initiative Grant in partnership with the National Association of Regional Councils and nine other Councils of Government around the county.

Through Solar Ready II, NIRPC and its partners will target various solar energy best management practices for implementation in the communities throughout Northwest Indiana. This will focus on 3 main areas:

  • Planning Improvements: Improving zoning and building codes, updating policies, and education.
  • Process Improvements: Streamline permitting, standardize fees, pre-qualify plans and installers.
  • Financing: Distribute soft cost survey, engage local lenders, enact a solarize campaign.

Best Management Practice Matrix – Click to learn more

This website is hosted by the State of Indiana but NIRPC is an independent unit of local government and is not a State agency. Click here to learn more about NIRPC.