The proposed "Solar Cost Reduction Act" aims to modernize the permitting process for residential solar energy systems in Rhode Island by establishing a statewide smart solar permitting platform. This platform will enable contractors and other qualified parties to submit permit applications electronically at any time, perform automated code compliance checks, and issue permits instantly for applications that meet safety and building codes.

Municipalities are required to allow applications for residential solar energy systems or other eligible small-scale solar energy systems to be submitted and permits issued instantly through the statewide smart solar permitting platform or an equivalent automated system within 18 months of the act's enactment. The act also specifies that municipalities cannot require additional manual plan reviews for permits issued through the platform.

Additionally, the act introduces provisions for remote preliminary inspections, allowing homeowners to submit recorded photographs and videos demonstrating compliance with applicable code requirements. Municipalities are required to maintain a digital record of these inspections and may conduct on-site audits if necessary. The act mandates that remote preliminary inspections be offered at no greater cost and with no greater delay than in-person inspections.

Furthermore, the act establishes a centralized online repository for municipal ordinances, regulations, and local requirements applicable to the permitting and installation of solar energy systems. It also requires jurisdictions to provide annual reports to the office of energy resources, confirming compliance with the act and detailing the number of inspections conducted remotely and in person, as well as the failure rates of each inspection.

Overall, the act seeks to streamline the permitting process, reduce administrative costs, and promote the adoption of solar energy systems in the state.