Maryland’s 2025 solar opportunities: A bright future for clean energy
- Solar affordability
The future of solar energy in Maryland has never looked brighter! With new solar opportunities rolling out in 2025, residents and businesses across the state have more reasons than ever to go solar. Here’s everything you need to know about the upcoming programs, how they benefit you, and how Solar United Neighbors can help you navigate these options.
1. Overview: Maryland’s Commitment to Solar Energy
Maryland is doubling down on its commitment to renewable energy. The new programs launching in 2025 aim to make solar more accessible, affordable, and impactful. These initiatives align with the state’s ambitious goals for reducing carbon emissions and increasing renewable energy adoption.
2. New solar incentives to watch for
a. Maryland Solar Access Program
The Maryland Solar Access Program provides grants to help residents install rooftop solar systems, making clean energy more affordable. The program supports income-qualified households and offers grants of up to $7,500 based on the size of the solar system with $750 per kW. Applications opened in January of this year and are processed on a first-come, first-served basis. Applying early is recommended for those looking to save on energy costs and switch to renewable energy. Now, more families in Maryland will have access to the benefits of solar such as lower energy bills.
Maximum income to qualify for Solar Access grants
| Household size | Maximum gross yearly income |
|---|---|
| 1 | $128,430 |
| 2 | $146,715 |
| 3 | $165,090 |
| 4 | $183,375 |
| 5 | $198,090 |
| 6 | $212,715 |
| 7 | $227,430 |
| 8 | $242,055 |
b. Commercial Solar Grant Program
The Commercial Solar Grant Program helps businesses and organizations, especially those in underserved communities, switch to solar energy. It offers extra support for veteran-owned and minority-owned businesses to ensure fair access to solar. Originally funded at $5 million, the budget has doubled to $10 million due to high demand, showing the program’s importance and the rising interest in renewable energy among businesses.
3. Why Maryland’s New Programs Matter
- Economic benefits: Solar adoption can reduce electricity bills, create local jobs, and stimulate economic growth in communities across Maryland.
- Environmental impact: These incentives align with Maryland’s renewable energy goals, helping to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and combat climate change.
- Energy independence: More solar systems mean less dependency on the grid, making communities more resilient during outages and energy crises.
4. How Solar United Neighbors can help
a. Educational resources
Solar United Neighbors offers free educational resources to empower residents in their journey toward clean energy. These include engaging webinars, such as our popular Solar 101 sessions, designed to help participants understand their options and make informed decisions about solar adoption. Additionally, we provide comprehensive resources to simplify the process of navigating Maryland’s solar opportunities, ensuring everyone can access the benefits of renewable energy with confidence.
b. Expert support
We also have a dedicated Help Desk here to provide personalized support throughout your solar journey. Our team assists with applications for new solar programs, ensuring that you understand the requirements and submit accurate documentation to maximize your benefits. Additionally, we connect you with trusted local solar installers, giving you access to reliable professionals who can guide you from consultation to installation. Our Help Desk is committed to making your transition to solar as seamless and stress-free as possible.
c. Advocacy
We are committed to advocacy efforts that ensure state solar programs remain accessible and equitable for all residents. We actively fight for policies that prioritize the needs of solar users, working to remove barriers and create opportunities for wider adoption. By expanding renewable energy options and promoting fairness in program implementation, we aim to build a clean energy future that benefits everyone.
5. Get started: What you can do today
Step 1: Confirm your eligibility with Maryland Energy Administration (MEA)
Assess if you qualify for upcoming grants by reviewing the Maryland Solar Access Program’s income-based criteria or the Commercial Solar Grant Program’s business focus. For more details, visit MEA’s website.
Step 2: Join our group buying solar program!
By joining a solar group through Solar United Neighbors, you can save on installation costs and access expert support. Click here to see if there is an active group open in Maryland.
Step 3: Stay informed
Sign up to receive updates about these programs, application deadlines, and upcoming SUN events.
Ready to go solar?
Join a solar group today or register for our upcoming Solar 101 Webinar. Let’s bring clean, affordable energy to every corner of Maryland!
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