To help manage the recent surge in Battery Energy Storage System (ESS) applications, the City of Rocklin Building and Fire Departments have  begin accepting electronic submittals through SolarApp+.

SolarApp+ is an online platform developed by the U.S. Department of Energy that allows licensed contractors to submit plans electronically for faster review. Contractors can access the system at https://solarapp.nrel.gov/login.

The change comes in response to a surge in ESS plan submittals, which has increased to nearly six times the normal volume due to the upcoming expiration of federal tax credits at the end of the year. This surge has created a processing backlog. To address this, staff resources have been reallocated and the City is working to add additional capacity.

While the City will continue to accept electronic submittals through eTRAKiT, those plans will enter a traditional queued review process and will take longer to approve compared to submittals through SolarApp+. Contractors and applicants with permits currently in the queue have been notified that they may opt to resubmit through SolarApp+ for faster processing.

Important Reminders:

• Final approval of ESS permits requires a complete and accurate application and compliance with Fire Code requirements.
• All systems—whether submitted through SolarApp+ or eTRAKiT—must pass on-site inspections by both the Building and Fire Departments before final approval.
• Incomplete plans or improper installations will result in additional delays.
• Approval timelines can range from a few weeks to up to 60+ days, depending on application quality, contractor coordination, and utility involvement.
• Utilizing a qualified, licensed contractor is highly encouraged.

The City recognizes the urgency of delivering projects to customers and remains committed to processing applications as efficiently as possible. Contractors are strongly encouraged to utilize SolarApp+ for faster review and approval and to set realistic timelines with clients.