Solar and Clean Energy

Welcome to the Bucks County Solar Webpage!

Bucks County is currently in the process of working toward a SolSmart designation to improve the ease of access to solar energy within the county. "SolSmart is a national designation program recognizing cities, counties, and regional organizations that foster the development of mature local solar markets." Learn more about SolSmart here.

For more information about the basics of solar energy and solar options, read the Residential Consumer Guide to Solar Power , or visit the Department of Energy's Homeowner's Guide to Going Solar. For Agricultural best management practices, check out the PA Department of Agriculture's recommendations here. Also, an updated large-scale solar planning guide called "[email protected]: A Local Government Guidebook for Improving Large-Scale Solar Outcomes" can be found here.

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Solar in Bucks County

Currently the State of Pennsylvania does not have any Solar Access Laws. Solar Access Laws would reduce the ability for private restrictions  (such as those from HOAs) to be placed on solar energy installations. The state of Pennsylvania still provides guidance and resources, seen here, though currently it is the municipalities who are ultimately responsible for solar permitting and zoning. The County of Bucks is working with DVRPC to help develop solar best management practices as well as a detailed model ordnance for small, medium, and utility scale solar installations.

Clean Energy

The County of Bucks has developed a Model Alternative Energy Ordinance (draft found here), and encourage all municipalities to review and adopt these recommendations. 

Bucks is also working with DVRPC on regionwide solar model ordinances as well as developing an energy transition plan to create policies and programs that will help streamline clean energy transition within the County.