County approves Solarize outreach program to boost residential and small‑business solar adoption

The Oakland County Finance Committee on Dec. 3 approved a community renewable-energy education program — dubbed the 'Solarize' initiative — to hold up to eight public meetings across the county aimed at promoting residential and small-business solar adoption.

Commissioner Woodward described the program as an educational effort in partnership with the Great Lakes Renewable Energy Association to help residents understand solar installation processes, estimate costs and access group-buy discounts. Staff said the county-wide effort supports the county’s goal to reduce carbon emissions and expand local renewable energy usage. The committee approved a not-to-exceed program budget of about $20,000 for venue rentals, refreshments, targeted advertising (including Facebook), printing and staffing; staff estimated roughly $2,500 per meeting and said the total will be lower if fewer events are held.

Program leaders said the meetings will be informational rather than sales-driven: an installer will provide a free preliminary estimate for interested homeowners based on a recent utility bill and then, if homeowners proceed, will perform on-site assessments and provide final proposals. Staff also noted a Michigan law change that prevents blanket homeowners-association bans on solar and EV chargers, removing a prior barrier for some residents. Commissioners asked about whether leasing arrangements would create property-transaction issues; staff said the Solarize program will emphasize purchase options rather than lease models and that installers will explain financing and property impacts.

Supporters said the outreach is intended to increase adoption through education and potential small group discounts (5–15%) when multiple households pursue installations. The committee approved the program by voice vote.