Washington state committee refines solar code exemptions for affordable housing

The Building Code Council of Washington convened on May 23, 2025, to discuss significant updates to the state's solar energy regulations, particularly focusing on affordable housing projects. The meeting highlighted a proposal that maintains the existing requirement of 0.75 watts per square foot for solar installations while introducing exceptions for small buildings and affordable housing.

One of the key discussions centered around allowing affordable housing projects to either install solar panels on-site or contribute to a state fund dedicated to solar energy development. This fund aims to support solar installations on affordable housing projects elsewhere, providing flexibility for developers who may face challenges in placing solar systems on their roofs.

The proposal also includes a tiered contribution system, where smaller systems would have a higher dollar-per-watt contribution rate compared to larger systems. This adjustment was made in response to industry feedback, which indicated that previous contribution amounts were not realistic for smaller installations.

Council members debated the implications of exempting affordable housing from on-site solar requirements. Some argued that this exemption could lead to missed opportunities for renewable energy generation directly at these sites. However, proponents of the proposal emphasized the importance of reducing upfront costs for affordable housing developers, suggesting that the flexibility offered could ultimately benefit low-income tenants.

Another point of contention was the requirement for solar installations on sloped roofs. While some industry representatives advocated for including steeper roof pitches in the solar mandate, others expressed concerns about the architectural implications and visibility of solar arrays on such roofs.

The meeting concluded with a motion to approve the proposal, which included modifications to clarify the contribution structure and ensure that funds would benefit local communities. The council's decision reflects a nuanced approach to balancing renewable energy goals with the practical needs of affordable housing development in Washington.