A GOP bill making it easier--and more cost-effective--to install solar power on homes and businesses won a final, unanimous vote of approval from the state Senate today.

Senate Bill 117, authored by Broomfield Republican Sen. Shawn Mitchell, would cap exorbitant permit fees charged by some cities when property owners go solar.

Mitchell says that by lowering bureaucratic hurdles to a key renewable resource in the new energy economy, SB 117 encourages both energy conservation and economic development in the surging renewable-energy market--without spending tax dollars.

"It's a good thing anytime you can ease government's burden on the average citizen, encourage energy efficiency and stimulate the economy--all at the same time," Mitchell said after the vote.

The measure now goes to the House, where it will be sponsored by Rep. Frank McNulty, a Highlands Ranch Republican. McNulty, regarded as a policy expert on energy and resources issues, is a former official of the Colorado Department of Natural Resources.