City of Goshen SolSmart Solar Statement

Goshen strongly supports using solar and other forms of renewable energy in our community. To assist us in becoming more solar-friendly, Goshen participates in the SolSmart program.

Goshen has long been recognized as a community that respects and protects the environment. In 2018, Accelerate Indiana Municipalities organization designated Goshen the “Green Community of the Year.” Goshen is committed to promoting a variety of sustainable practices throughout the community. This commitment is evidenced by the City's Comprehensive Plan, which includes the following statement:

“Sustainable cities meet the needs of the present generation without compromising the needs of future generations. The City can play an important role in achieving greater sustainability and reducing pollution.”

The Comprehensive Plan includes many practices that can increase sustainability, including encouraging using renewable energy resources, such as solar power. With the help of the SolSmart team, we believe we can develop valuable tools and strategies to significantly expand the use of solar energy by businesses, government, and residents.

A number of privately owned solar projects have already been installed, with more in the planning stages. The City of Goshen is entering into NIPSCO’s Feed-In Tariff Program and, within 12 months, will install a 192 kW array at our municipal wastewater treatment facility. As a central hub for manufacturing, Goshen also has a unique opportunity to locate solar energy systems on the rooftops of industrial buildings. Several million square feet of rooftops could be used for solar applications.

To monitor progress in expanding solar capacity, we are committed to tracking the installation of new solar projects throughout the City. Goshen is prepared to dedicate staff time to work with the SolSmart team to implement programs, policies, and procedures that will expand the use of solar installations in our community.