Coral Springs earns national recognition for solar energy leadership with SolSmart Silver designation
Coral Springs, Florida – The City of Coral Springs has earned national recognition for its forward-thinking approach to solar energy and clean technology, receiving the SolSmart Silver designation during the April 1st Commission Meeting. The accolade, awarded through the Energy Ready Program, honors communities that take meaningful steps to make solar adoption easier, streamline permitting processes, and support local energy innovation.
As energy costs continue to rise nationwide, and demand for new generation grows—fueled in part by data center expansion and advances in artificial intelligence—municipalities are increasingly focused on modernizing policies to support clean energy. Coral Springs’ Silver designation reflects the city’s dedication to helping residents and businesses explore solar power and other emerging energy solutions, including electric vehicles and energy storage systems.
“For our community, we want to make sure residents who want to install solar on their homes or businesses can do so efficiently and that our city regulations aren’t creating unnecessary barriers to these projects,” said Vice Mayor Nancy Metayer Bowen. Her statement underscores the city’s priority: removing obstacles and providing clear pathways for solar adoption.
SolSmart, a national technical assistance and designation program funded by the U.S. Department of Energy SunShot Initiative, evaluates communities on how effectively they facilitate solar development. The program recognizes local governments that train staff, simplify local processes, improve ordinances, and support the growth of strong solar markets. Coral Springs’ achievement demonstrates a commitment not just to solar panels, but to a broader culture of energy innovation and sustainability.
Through the Energy Ready Program, Coral Springs received expert technical guidance led by the Interstate Renewable Energy Council and the International City/County Management Association. This support helped the city review zoning regulations and plans, train municipal staff, develop educational resources for residents, and create engagement strategies to promote clean energy adoption. The initiative emphasizes community collaboration and positions Coral Springs as a leader in municipal sustainability efforts.
The SolSmart Silver designation also highlights the city’s responsiveness to the evolving energy landscape. With more homeowners and businesses exploring solar as a viable and cost-effective energy source, Coral Springs is taking proactive measures to ensure residents can take advantage of these opportunities without unnecessary delays or regulatory obstacles. The city’s work includes evaluating ordinances, streamlining permitting, and providing resources to help residents navigate solar installations confidently.
“Achieving the SolSmart Silver designation signals that Coral Springs is serious about energy innovation and environmental stewardship,” said city officials. “We are focused on expanding access to clean energy and providing the tools residents and businesses need to reduce costs and increase sustainability.”
Residents interested in learning more about solar, energy efficiency, and programs to lower energy use can visit the city’s Energy Savings and Solar Programs page. By providing resources, guidance, and support, Coral Springs continues to strengthen its position as a forward-thinking community embracing modern energy solutions while supporting economic growth and environmental responsibility.
With its recognition as a SolSmart Silver city, Coral Springs joins a growing number of municipalities nationwide that are making clean energy more accessible, demonstrating that even local governments can play a pivotal role in shaping a more sustainable, energy-resilient future. The designation serves as both an acknowledgment of past efforts and a roadmap for ongoing innovation, reflecting the city’s commitment to supporting its residents, businesses, and the environment for years to come.
