Washington panel refines solar installation mandates for affordable housing projects

The Building Code Council meeting held on May 29, 2025, focused on significant updates to the solar energy requirements for new buildings in Washington State, particularly concerning affordable housing. The proposed changes aim to maintain the existing standard of 0.75 watts per square foot while introducing exceptions for smaller buildings and affordable housing projects.

One of the key discussions centered around allowing developers to either install solar panels on-site or contribute to a state fund dedicated to solar energy projects for affordable housing. This fund is managed by the Washington State Housing Finance Commission, which has previously facilitated similar contributions in Seattle. The intent is to provide flexibility for developers who may face challenges installing solar systems on their roofs.

The council also addressed concerns from industry representatives regarding the financial viability of the contributions to the state fund, suggesting that the amounts should be adjusted to better reflect the costs of smaller solar systems. The discussion highlighted the importance of ensuring that any contributions lead to tangible benefits for low-income housing projects.

Another significant point of contention was the requirement for solar installations on sloped roofs. While some council members advocated for allowing solar on roofs with a pitch of up to 8:12, others expressed concerns about the practicality and visibility of such installations. The council ultimately decided to maintain a focus on flat roofs, which are less visible and easier to manage.

The meeting concluded with a consensus that the proposed changes would not increase the overall stringency of the code but would provide clearer guidelines and more options for compliance. The council emphasized the importance of supporting affordable housing while ensuring that renewable energy installations are practical and beneficial for all stakeholders involved.

Next steps include finalizing the proposed changes and ensuring that they align with the broader goals of increasing renewable energy use across the state.