About Carolinas DASH
The Carolinas Development Assistance and Siting Hub (DASH) program aims to provide education and technical assistance on renewable energy siting and permitting issues to local governments and communities in North and South Carolina. This three-year U.S. Department of Energy-funded program will involve (1) surveys and community meetings to understand questions and perspectives about renewable energy development; (2) creation of resources to support local governments on siting and permitting issues, including model ordinances and a database of existing North and South Carolina renewable energy ordinances; and (3) educational workshops and direct technical assistance for local governments and communities.
Listening to Communities
The Carolinas DASH brought together residents, local officials, and stakeholders to discuss solar and wind energy development and siting in their areas. These meetings provide a platform to share information, address concerns, and gather community input to support informed decision-making.
Surveying the Carolinas
The Carolinas DASH conducted surveys of local officials and more than 1,100 residents, primarily in rural areas, to better understand perspectives on solar and wind energy development and siting. The feedback collected helps tailor resources and support to meet the unique needs of communities and local governments across the Carolinas.
Talking to Developers
The Carolinas DASH met with wind and solar developers to learn from their experiences, including challenges with siting and community concerns. These conversations help inform strategies and resources to better address development, permitting, and siting issues facing large-scale solar and wind projects in the region.
Educating Local Officials and Communities
The Carolinas DASH offers education sessions and workshops for local officials and community members to build understanding of renewable energy development, permitting, and siting. These opportunities provide practical information and tools to support informed decision-making and increase knowledge across the Carolinas.
Carolinas DASH is a two-state initiative...
supporting local governments in North and South Carolina as they navigate the complexities of renewable energy siting and permitting.
By providing technical assistance, promoting stakeholder engagement, and encouraging consistent, informed ordinance development, the Carolinas DASH helps communities make balanced decisions that align with their economic development objectives while respecting local needs. It also assists in streamlining the decision-making process for large-scale solar and wind projects and helps reduce delays and uncertainty. Over time, the Carolinas DASH will serve as a model for similar efforts nationwide.
Project Timeline
Project Timeline
Project History
Listening and Understanding
Conduct surveys and community meetings to gather questions, concerns, and perspectives on renewable energy development from residents, local officials, and other stakeholders.
Project History
Developing Resources and Educating Stakeholders
Develop resources, including model ordinances and a database of existing renewable energy ordinances. Deliver educational workshops and sessions to build knowledge and support informed decision-making on siting and permitting.
Project History
Providing Technical Assistance
Provide direct technical assistance to local governments to address specific challenges related to renewable energy development, siting, and permitting.
