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H 3520

An Act facilitating distributed energy resources in the commonwealth

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by James Arena-DeRosa and 12 co-sponsors

Bill H 3520 simplifies solar permit processes in Massachusetts, allowing homeowners to install solar systems faster through an automated online platform, boosting renewable energy adoption.

Accompanied a new draft, see H4744
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Bill Summary · H 3520

Summary of Bill H 3520: An Act Facilitating Distributed Energy Resources in the Commonwealth

Bill Number: H 3520
Introduced: February 27, 2025
Status: Accompanied a new draft, see H4744
Presented By: Jack Patrick Lewis and co-sponsors

Purpose and Intent

Bill H 3520 aims to streamline the permitting process for residential solar photovoltaic systems in Massachusetts. The legislation seeks to promote the adoption of distributed energy resources by implementing a Smart Residential Solar Permitting Platform, thereby making it easier and faster for homeowners to install solar energy systems.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several significant provisions:

  1. Smart Residential Solar Permitting Platform:

    • Establishes a software platform that automates the permitting process for residential solar installations.
    • Allows for online submission of permit applications, including electronic payments for any associated fees.
    • Ensures that permits and revisions can be issued instantly upon submission of a compliant application.

  2. Electronic Submission Requirements:

    • By July 1, 2027, municipalities must allow electronic submissions for solar photovoltaic system permits.
    • Applications will be deemed complete if no correction notice is issued within five business days.
    • Permits will be automatically approved if no action is taken by the Permit Granting Authority within ten business days after the application is deemed complete.

  3. Municipal Compliance:

    • Municipalities with populations over 5,000 must implement the Smart Residential Solar Permitting Platform by the deadline.
    • These municipalities are expected to process at least 75% of residential solar applications without manual review during the permitting and inspection processes.

  4. Reporting Requirements:

    • Municipalities must submit compliance reports to the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources within 60 days of implementing the platform.
    • Annual reports on the usage of the platform must be submitted by April 1st each year.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Homeowners: The bill primarily benefits homeowners looking to install solar energy systems by simplifying the permitting process.
  • Municipalities: Local governments will need to adapt their permitting processes and implement the new platform.
  • Department of Energy Resources: This state department will oversee compliance and reporting from municipalities.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was referred to the committee on Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy on February 27, 2025.
  • A hearing was scheduled for October 9, 2025, to discuss the bill.
  • The bill was accompanied by a new draft (H4744) on November 13, 2025, indicating ongoing legislative refinement.

Conclusion

Bill H 3520 represents a significant step towards enhancing the adoption of solar energy in Massachusetts by modernizing the permitting process. By leveraging technology, the bill aims to reduce barriers for homeowners and promote the use of renewable energy resources across the Commonwealth.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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