The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) recently launched the Community Renewable Energy Siting Tool (CREST), a digital application that will lead to more transparent and efficient siting and permitting processes for renewable energy projects. VHB was the only consultant invited on the planning committee to develop the tool’s Geographic Information Systems (GIS) interface.
CREST offers an easy-to-use, consistent, and publicly available way to assess sites for solar suitability by pooling from multiple available database sets and using GIS mapping to display data in a compelling, digestible format. DEEP initiated the tool to assist developers in quickly and easily analyzing sites against significant and relevant criteria, such as forestry and wildlife, demographics, and land use.
In assembling the CREST planning committee, DEEP reached out to CT Energy Market Lead Steve Kochis, inviting him on the panel to offer input on the application’s functionality, graphic display, and criteria. VHB was the only land use consultant brought on the planning committee, which consisted of representatives from over 20 organizations including municipalities, regional councils of government, community-based associations, electric utilities, solar developers, and environmental advocacy groups.
“We’re proud to have contributed to creating CREST,” said Steve. “This tool will help accelerate the rate of renewable energy development in Connecticut.”
The tool will facilitate balancing solar development with community needs, promote green energy projects, and increase accessibility to siting and permitting information.
To learn how to use CREST, register for DEEP’s upcoming webinar with the University of Connecticut’s Center for Land Use Education and Research (CLEAR) on June 18th at 1:00 pm.
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