We should create a rule for all new developments on 1/2-acre or more that contain more than one dwelling unit, as well as any commercial, industrial, or mixed-use. Such developments should be required to include at least 1 kW of solar generating capacity (4-5 panels) per residential dwelling unit or per 1,000 interior square feet of commercial/industrial or other uses. Further, all new development and remodels estimated to cost $100,000 or more should be wired to easily add solar at a later time.

This requirement would serve to encourage more solar generating capacity without being too cost prohibitive to builders/developers. At only 1 kW, most people will choose to scale it upward to realize greater economic benefit, but even if they choose to keep the minimum we will create a sizable aggregate impact on our area's clean energy goals. Not to mention, the positive attention this could generate in the PR sphere would actually help raise our city's economic development profile -- although some will argue the opposite.