. . . Whatever is decided by the panel, one solar-friendly group hopes it clears the way for swift permitting of solar projects.

“I’m glad to see that the city is working on the zoning process,” said Justin Ivenholzl [sic], environmental coordinator for Southeast Como Improvement Association in Minneapolis. “Now if the city could work on an easy system for solar permitting - something easy and straightforward.”

Ivenholzl [sic] said the process of installing solar energy systems on the roof of an aging Minneapolis house can stun some owners of 100-year-old houses. He cited the mandated hiring, in some instances, of structural engineers, which adds time and cost to projects. . .