The City of Perry is being recognized for encouraging solar energy growth.

SolSmart, a program funded through the U.S. Department of Energy’s SunShot Initiative, has awarded Perry a bronze designation.

The City was chosen for the honor after adopting programs and practices that make it faster, easier and cheaper to implement solar energy programs.

City Administrator Sven Peterson says “this is all part of the City’s long-term initiative to become more sustainable through advancing opportunities for job growth and healthy living in the local economy.”  Peterson adds that this designation makes solar installation a more attractive and affordable option for homes and businesses.

SolSmart says Perry has taken specific steps to reduce the soft costs of installing solar energy systems by streamlining the permit process and establishing low solar building permit application fees.