The browser you are using is not supported. Please consider using a modern browser.
Embracing the Sun: Community Solar Programs in Maryland
Key Takeaways
- Community solar allows Maryland residents—including renters and those with unsuitable roofs—to subscribe to a local solar farm and receive credits on their regular utility bill, making solar power accessible without on-site installation.
- The program is part of Maryland's permanent strategy to generate 50% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. Initiated as a pilot in 2017, the program was made permanent in 2023, requiring that at least 40% of each project's capacity be reserved for low- and moderate-income subscribers.
- Participants typically save 5% to 10% on their annual electricity costs, with low- to moderate-income residents qualifying for higher savings, up to 25% annually. The program is free to sign up and can be cancelled at any time without an early termination fee.
Table of Contents
Maryland is blazing a trail in the renewable energy landscape. The state aims to generate 50% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030, and community solar is expected to make a significant contribution to this goal.
Community solar in Maryland isn’t just about green energy; it’s a local community initiative aimed at reducing both electricity bills and carbon footprints. If you’re curious about joining a community solar farm near you, keep reading to see why community solar is so hot right now in the energy world.
What Is Community Solar in Maryland?
At its core, community solar is a revolutionary way for individuals to access solar power without having to install panels on their own property. It operates on a simple yet powerful concept: a solar farm is built in a community, and people can subscribe or purchase a share of the electricity generated. This model makes solar energy accessible to everyone, including renters and those without suitable roofs for solar panels.
Maryland community solar programs enable participants to enjoy the benefits of solar energy, including lower utility bills and a reduced environmental impact, without the upfront costs and maintenance associated with rooftop installations. There are currently 14 active community solar projects in Maryland, offered by 7 different energy providers.
What Are The Benefits Of Community Solar?
-
It's An Investment in Local Energy
Community solar programs in Maryland connect you to local clean energy projects, supporting job creation and renewable energy development.
-
You Can Save Money on Your Electricity Bill
Most customers who enroll in a community solar program in MD save between 5-10% off their annual electricity costs.
-
Access Solar Power Without Needing to Own Property
Unlike rooftop solar programs, you don’t need to own a home or business to take advantage of community solar. Yes, even renters can use community solar. You only need an electric bill to get started.
History of Community Solar in Maryland
Maryland began offering community solar in 2017 with the introduction of a pilot program, which was later made permanent in 2023 through House Bill 908. The pilot program was initially set to run for seven years, from 2017 to 2024. The program was a response to the passage of the Community Solar Energy Generating System Program by the Maryland legislature in May 2015 to increase access to green energy.
The pilot program was overseen by the Maryland Public Service Commission and involved various stakeholders, including solar developers, non-profits, homeowner associations, commercial businesses, utilities, and retail electricity suppliers. The program’s capacity was divided between four utility service territories: Baltimore Gas & Electric, Pepco, Delmarva Power, and Potomac Edison. The permanent program has no capacity cap and mandates that at least 40% of each project’s capacity be reserved for low- and moderate-income subscribers. As of 2022, Maryland had at least 88 megawatts of community solar capacity in operation, with a goal to generate 50% of its electricity from renewables by 2030.
How Much Can I Save by Joining a Maryland Community Solar Farm?
Subscribers to MD community solar programs enjoy significant savings on their electricity bills, with the potential to save hundreds of dollars annually. The exact savings vary depending on the specific community solar program and the user’s energy consumption, but generally range from 5% to 10% annual savings. If you qualify as a low to moderate income resident then your savings gets bumped to 25% annually.
Solar Power Without the Panels
Access the benefits of a nearby solar farm—guaranteed discounts and clean energy—all through your existing utility bill. It’s the easiest way to go solar!
How to Know if Community Solar Is Right for You
Deciding if community solar is the right choice involves considering several factors. If you live in Maryland and lack a suitable roof for solar panels, or if you’re a renter, community solar offers a practical solution to participate in renewable energy. It’s also worth considering if you’re looking for ways to lower your electricity bills while supporting local renewable energy projects. Comparing MD community solar providers and plans is necessary to find the best fit for your energy needs and financial goals.
What Is the Difference Between Community Solar and Green Energy Plans?
While both community solar and green energy plans aim to increase the use of renewable resources, there are key differences. Community Solar in Maryland focuses on sharing the output of a local solar farm among community members, directly connecting consumers with their energy source. Green energy plans, on the other hand, may source electricity from a variety of renewable sources, which may not necessarily support local jobs or energy independence.
What is the Difference Between Community Solar and Rooftop?
Rooftop solar systems require homeownership and a significant upfront investment. They offer personal energy production and the potential for increased property value. In contrast, community solar is an accessible alternative that doesn’t require property ownership, upfront costs, or suitable roofing conditions. It is more inclusive and appeals to a broader range of people.
With community solar, participants share the energy production, contributing to sustainability without the logistical and financial commitments of rooftop installations. The decision between the two options depends on individual circumstances, such as financial readiness, property suitability, and personal preferences for energy independence or community participation. Both choices promise to use renewable energy but cater to different needs.
How to Sign Up for Community Solar in Maryland
Signing Up Takes Less Than 5 Minutes:
- Enter your ZIP Code on our Marketplace to see a list of nearby farms.
- Compare solar project details to learn more about its size, availability, billing, and sign-up bonuses.
- Fill out a form with basic contact info and utility provider. (A credit check may be required.)
- Finalize your subscription with your provider. They’ll allocate a share of the solar farm based on your consumption. This share will meet 85-90% of your annual energy needs.
- Wait for 1-3 months to see credits on your bills and receive an invoice from your usual utility company. Your utility company works with your provider for billing setup. Some projects require a minimum number of subscribers, which may delay your savings.
Community Solar Providers in Maryland
The role of a community solar provider is to connect you with local community farms in your area. The core service they provide is a subscription-based model that streamlines the enrollment, billing, and customer service tasks that come with customer acquisition.
Arcadia
Arcadia brightens the community solar landscape with equal access to clean energy. They democratize the benefits of solar power, allowing renters, homeowners, and business owners alike to tap into solar farms without on-site installation. Their model focuses on sustainability and offers noticeable savings on electricity bills through clean energy credits.
Currently, Arcadia provides community solar programs in Colorado, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Virginia and Washington D.C..
Nexamp
Founded in 2007 by two U.S. Army veterans, Nexamp has grown from a solar installer into a leading community solar company. Its mission is to make clean energy affordable and accessible by developing and operating large-scale solar farms.
Nexamp has a growing national footprint, with projects and service areas across the United States. They have a particularly strong presence in the Northeast, including Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and New York, but have expanded into other states like Illinois and Maryland, with new projects and markets continually in development.
What to Expect With Your New Solar Bills
The most confusing aspect of a community solar program is that most customers will now receive two bills. One from your utility and one from your community solar provider.
With community solar, you will be required to pay for a percentage of the credits based on the energy production of your solar farm. But it is important to note that you will pay less than what your credits are worth (less than the discount you got off of your utility bill) and credits are not seen until 1-3 after your bill.
For example if you earned $100 credit discount off of your April utility bill, you will pay your community solar provider for 90% of that, or $90 in June. The community solar provider passes along that money to the solar farm owner and you net out with $10 savings just not during the same month.
This example bill scenario is for a resident on a 10% savings project. Savings rates will vary by state and eligibility factors.
In most states, you will pay your community solar provider 1-3 months after your utility bill. In certain states, payment will happen directly through your utility bill. So check your contract for these state-specific details.
How to Find and Compare Community Solar Near You
The best way to find community solar projects in MD is to enter your ZIP Code in our search bar. You will be able to compare community solar plans near you and find one that fits your needs. Easily compare what each program offers, like savings and contract terms, to find the best fit for you.
Remember, community solar is a great way to support renewable energy and save on your electricity bill, all without the need to install any equipment at your home. It’s a win-win for you and the planet.
FAQS About Community Solar Programs in MD
-
Simply enter your ZIP Code into our search bar to start shopping for local community solar programs near you. We compare and pre-vet providers for you so you are guaranteed to find the perfect plan for your energy needs.
-
You only need to live in the service territory served by a community solar project. If you move within that same territory, you can transfer your subscription to your new address. Subject to the terms and conditions of your contract, you may be able to transfer your subscription to another eligible customer.
-
Absolutely, community solar is designed to be accessible for both homeowners and renters. Participating in the program does not require you to install solar panels at your residence. You can subscribe to get your energy from a community solar project in your utility’s service territory.
-
You will get a bill credit based on the amount of electricity produced by your share of the project. Bill credits will vary depending on your subscription contract (but typically the discount is between 5% and 15%). A utility may choose to apply the kilowatt-hour credit to each subscriber’s bill as either a reduction in kilowatt-hour use OR a dollar credit to the subscriber’s billed amount.