Eight Southwest Virginia Communities Are Being Recognized For Their Work To Encourage The Growth Of Solar Energy. The Communities Earned A Spot In Solsmart, A Nationwide Program Funded By The U.S. Department Of Energy. A Ceremony To Recognize Them Was Scheduled For Thursday. A Solsmart Designation Means A Local Government Has Taken Steps To Reduce Red Tape That Might Prevent A Solar Company From Setting Up Shop. The Communities Being Recognized At A Ceremony Thursday Are: Wise, Dickenson, Lee, Russell, Scott And Tazewell Counties; The City Of Norton; And The Town Of St. Paul.