Introduction
Maryland is committed to transitioning to clean energy, and its Community Solar Energy Generating Systems (CSEGS) Program plays a central role in achieving the state’s renewable energy goals. Established by House Bill 908, which was passed in April 2023 and took effect on July 1, 2023, this program replaced the previous community solar pilot program that had been running since 2017. Designed to expand access to solar power, the CSEGS Program enables residents, businesses, and landowners to share the benefits of solar energy, even if they cannot install solar panels on their properties.
By participating in the Maryland Community Solar Program, individuals contribute to a cleaner environment while enjoying financial savings. This program features unlimited community solar capacity, with individual projects capped at 5 megawatts, and ensures that 40% of each project’s output serves low- to moderate-income subscribers.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the details of the Maryland Community Solar Program, its benefits, and the opportunities it provides for landowners to support renewable energy development.
1. What is the Maryland Community Solar Program?
The Maryland Community Solar Energy Generating Systems Program is an innovative initiative that allows energy consumers to subscribe to shared solar projects. This program makes renewable energy more inclusive and accessible, empowering communities to transition to cleaner power sources.
How It Works
- Development of Solar Farms: Solar developers build shared solar facilities across the state, known as Community Solar Energy Generating Systems (CSEGS).
- Subscription Model: Residents and businesses subscribe to a portion of the solar farm’s energy production.
- Energy Credits: Subscribers receive credits on their utility bills for the energy produced by their share of the solar project.
- Eligibility: Open to all Maryland residents, including renters and homeowners, as long as they have an electric meter account within the same utility territory as the solar array.
- Environmental Impact: By participating, subscribers help reduce Maryland’s reliance on fossil fuels.
2. Benefits for Residents and Businesses
The Maryland Community Solar Program offers numerous advantages for participants:
Lower Energy Costs
Subscribers typically save money on their electricity bills by receiving credits for their share of solar energy production. These cost savings make renewable energy more affordable for everyone.
No Installation Required
Participants can access solar energy benefits without needing to install or maintain panels on their properties. This makes the program ideal for renters, homeowners with unsuitable roofs, and small businesses.
Environmental Benefits
By subscribing to community solar, participants reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to Maryland’s clean energy goals.
3. Opportunities for Landowners
Landowners are critical to the success of the Maryland Community Solar Program. By providing land for solar farm development, they play a key role in advancing renewable energy initiatives while reaping financial rewards.
Financial Benefits
- Competitive Purchase Offers: Solar developers offer attractive prices for land that meets the criteria for solar projects.
- Immediate Financial Gain: Selling land for solar development provides a significant one-time payment without ongoing responsibilities.
Sustainable Land Use
- Solar farms are designed with minimal environmental disruption and can coexist with certain agricultural practices.
- Once the solar farm’s lifecycle ends, the land can often be restored to its original state or repurposed.
4. Supporting Maryland’s Renewable Energy Goals
Maryland’s Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) sets ambitious targets for clean energy adoption, aiming for 50% renewable energy by 2030 and a complete transition to zero-carbon electricity by 2040. The Community Solar Program is an essential part of this strategy.
Economic and Community Benefits
- Solar farm projects create jobs during construction and operation phases.
- Local governments benefit from increased tax revenue, which supports public services and infrastructure improvements.
Environmental Impact
- Community solar projects help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality.
- These projects promote sustainable land use, preserving Maryland’s natural resources.
5. How to Get Involved
For Residents and Businesses
- Sign Up for a Subscription: Find a local community solar project and subscribe to start receiving energy credits and saving on your utility bills.
- Track Your Impact: Monitor your savings and see how your participation supports Maryland’s clean energy goals.
For Landowners
- Assess Your Land’s Potential: Contact solar developers to evaluate whether your property is suitable for a solar farm.
- Work with Sunland America: We specialize in helping landowners navigate the process of selling land for solar development, ensuring a seamless and rewarding experience.
