ST. LOUIS — New construction in the city of St. Louis will need to be “solar ready” — compatible with hosting rooftop arrays for solar energy.
The requirement applies to commercial, residential and multifamily construction, and was signed Monday by Mayor Lyda Krewson. The legislation, known as Board Bill 146, was approved unanimously by the city’s Board of Aldermen earlier this month.
Beyond the potential for greenhouse gas reduction, city officials touted the cost savings that solar panels can provide through slashing utility bills, and they noted that expenses of solar installation often stem from retrofitting buildings to accommodate the technology. This action hopes to eliminate that hurdle.
“Solar ready” buildings, for example, can help typical homeowners save $4,000 in installation costs, and spare commercial buildings owners $25,000, according to a statement issued by city leaders after the bill’s signing.
“Up until now, it has been only the people who can afford the up-front installation costs of solar power who benefit from the lower electric rates. This bill levels the playing field and better positions city residents to take advantage of solar power,” said Alderwoman Heather Navarro, who introduced the bill and also serves as executive director of the nonprofit Missouri Coalition for the Environment.
“This new solar ready ordinance fits perfectly in the city’s progressive use of modern, up-to-date building codes that are cost-effective, keep the public safe and conscious of our environment,” added Building Commissioner Frank Oswald, in the statement.
City officials said St. Louis is on the pioneering edge of adopting such a requirement, which takes effect immediately. A similar state-level mandate for residential construction was approved last year across California.
