SolarAPP+ Expansion: Integrating Solar and Storage Virtual Inspections and Automating Residential EV Charger Permitting and Plan Review

The SolarAPP+ Expansion project, solicitation number EPC-25-031, is managed by the California Energy Commission and executed by the SolarAPP Foundation in San Mateo County. The primary objective is to develop and pilot digital tools within the SolarAPP+ platform to streamline the permitting and inspection processes for clean energy technologies. This includes creating NFPA 915-compliant workflows for remote virtual inspections of solar and storage systems, as well as automating permitting and plan review tools for residential electric vehicle supply equipment. These EVSE tools will integrate fire code compliance, utility requirements, and support for bidirectional power transfer to meet California's infrastructure demands. A central focus of the initiative is to increase access to affordable clean energy in disadvantaged and underserved communities by reducing costs and shortening project timelines. The project also aims to validate and disseminate the environmental, time, and cost benefits of SolarAPP+ through reports and training to encourage nationwide adoption. The project is categorized as a software development and data collection effort and is exempt under CEQA section 15306 due to its lack of significant environmental impact. Performance is centered in San Carlos, California, with administrative oversight provided by the California Energy Commission.