New Residential or Marshall Fire Rebuild (New Property Ownership)

For new Residential Single Family Detached permits and Marshall Fire Single Family Detached permits under new ownership, the home is required to meet the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) with Appendix RC (Net Zero).  Appendix RC requires that the home be constructed to meet a minimum energy efficiency (ERI or HERS) rating and that residents offset their energy use with renewable energy to achieve net zero energy usage.  Energy offsets are most commonly done with onsite solar, through a community solar garden, or combination of both.  

 Xcel Energy has provided the following handout for property owners who are installing solar to offset their energy use.

For projects utilizing a community solar garden to achieve the renewable energy offset requirement, the RC Appendix requires that a minimum 15-year contract be provided.  A contract with annual auto renewal for a minimum 15-year period is also acceptable.  

Community Solar Companies with Available Subscriptions

The community solar developers below are companies that have subscriptions available, as of August 2023. Subscription availability is subject to change. 

SunShare
• Website: https://mysunshare.com/

Neighborhood Sun
• Website: https://neighborhoodsun.solar/

US Solar 
• Website: https://www.sunscription.com/partners/louisville

PowerMarket
• Website: https://unico.powermarket.io/marketplace.html

Additional solar garden options can be found on Xcel Energy’s website.

If you are a solar developer and you have available community solar subscriptions, email the City’s Sustainability Manager at kbetzold@louisvilleco.gov to be added to the list above.