Maryland Solar Access Program: New Grant for Residential Homeowners
The Maryland Solar Access Program (MSAP) is a great initiative to help people switch to solar power. The program launching in January 2025 aims to make solar energy in Maryland affordable and accessible for residential homeowners. However, there are some specific income requirements. Furthermore, this step will make it convenient for maximum people, boosting clean energy use in the state. The Solar Access Program is an updated form of the Residential Clean Energy Rebate Program.
What is the Maryland Solar Access Program?
Under this program, grants will be awarded at a rate of $750/kW, depending on the size of the solar system. According to the Brighter Tomorrow Act of 2024 the maximum grant amount that is allowed to a homeowner is $7,500. The funding for the program is $15 million. It is on a first come, first served basis, thus, you have to apply for grants before installing a qualified solar PV system. In addition, a solar installer you hire must be a participating contractor in the Maryland Solar Access Program.
How does the Maryland Solar Access Program work?
The program involves a two-step process including:
You have to apply for a reserve program fund for securing your place in the program. The eligibility criteria and income limits will be announced in Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) by the end of December 2024.
Once you will get your funds reserved in the program, you will be granted a 180 day time period to install your home solar panels and make them operational as well. To receive the grant, it is mandatory to verify the installation completion.
What are the features of the Maryland Solar Access Program?
- Unlike the past programs, this is an income-based eligibility grant, targeted at homeowners within specific income brackets.
- The program prioritizes transparency by outlining its requirements clearly in the FOA and supporting documents.
- Homeowners have six months from the fund reservation date to complete their installations, providing a reasonable timeline for participants.
- By avoiding a competitive application process, the program ensures that funding is distributed equitably and efficiently.
Is the Maryland Solar Access Program income-qualified?
MSAP grants are limited to eligible applicants whose annual household income does not exceed the limits, based on household size. An applicant is required to attest that they meet these income requirements as part of the application.
Moreover, MEA does not administer or have authority over the federal solar investment tax credit. Additionally, an owner of a residential solar PV system, regardless of income, is still eligible for solar renewable energy credits (SRECs) in Maryland.
What does it mean to be a Participating Contractor for the Maryland Solar Access Program?
MEA will require each solar PV installation contractor who wishes to participate in the Program to apply and be posted on a Participating Contractor List. This list will help ensure that Maryland Solar Access Program-eligible contractors meet the statutory requirements under the Brighter Tomorrow Act.
The Maryland Solar Access Program is both statutory as well as qualified-come-mandated program. Although MEA will not offer an FY25 residential solar incentive to households with an income greater than the Maryland Solar Access Program income limit, there is the option of 30% federal solar investment tax credit provided by the federal government.
In conclusion, the Maryland Energy Administration (MEA) FY25 Maryland Solar Access Program will enable Maryland residents to include solar photovoltaic (PV) systems installation and to use clean, affordable, and sustainable electricity. The Maryland Solar Access Program already has its own Participating Contractors and as a trusted solar installer, Solar SME has already applied for it. To reserve your grant funds now is the best time to go solar in Maryland. Get a FREE estimate now, install your system, and qualify for the Maryland Grant.