FY26 Maryland Solar Access Program

The Maryland Solar Access Program is administered by the Maryland Energy Administration and is designed to expand access to residential solar energy for income-eligible households across the state. Established under the Brighter Tomorrow Act of 2024, the program reflects Maryland’s broader commitment to clean energy adoption, cost reduction for residents, and environmental sustainability. The program operates as a rebate initiative funded through the Strategic Energy Investment Fund and is intended to reduce the upfront financial burden associated with installing solar photovoltaic systems on residential properties. The core purpose of the program is to enable income-qualified Maryland homeowners to install solar photovoltaic systems that generate clean and affordable electricity. By providing financial rebates, the program lowers the cost barrier and encourages adoption among households that might otherwise be unable to invest in solar technology. The initiative is structured to ensure consumer protection and program integrity by requiring participants to work with approved contractors and comply with specific program rules. The program also supports broader policy goals, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing renewable energy capacity within the state. Funding is provided in the form of rebates calculated based on system size, specifically at a rate of 750 dollars per kilowatt direct current, with a maximum rebate capped at 7500 dollars. These funds can be applied toward a wide range of eligible costs associated with solar installation, including equipment such as panels and inverters, permitting fees, electrical upgrades, interconnection costs, financing fees, and labor. However, certain restrictions apply, including prohibitions on duplicative funding from other state solar programs, requirements for permanent installation, and limitations on systems eligible for other regional renewable credit programs. Eligibility is limited to income-qualified homeowners residing in Maryland who meet defined household income thresholds based on household size. Applicants must own the property where the system will be installed and must work with a contractor approved by the Maryland Energy Administration. Contractors may apply on behalf of homeowners, and in some cases may receive the rebate directly while passing savings through to the homeowner. Additional eligibility requirements include compliance with state regulations, certification or pending certification under Maryland’s Solar Renewable Energy Credit program, and adherence to program-specific policies such as fossil fuel restrictions and consumer protection requirements. The application process is divided into two required steps. In the first step, applicants must submit an upfront rebate reservation request through the My MEA online portal before any installation begins. This submission includes required documentation such as proof of property ownership, a signed solar agreement, income eligibility attestations, and a completed maximum offer calculator. Once approved, applicants may proceed with installation. In the second step, after installation and utility permission to operate is obtained, applicants submit a rebate payment request along with documentation confirming system completion and financial obligations. Applications are reviewed by program staff to ensure compliance with all eligibility and documentation requirements. If additional information is needed, applicants are notified and must respond within fourteen calendar days. The program operates on a first come, first served basis and may close early if funds are exhausted. The deadline for submitting applications is May 31, 2027, though applicants are encouraged to apply early due to limited funding availability. Following approval of the second application step, rebate payments are processed and issued, typically through electronic transfer. Recipients may be subject to tax reporting requirements. The program also includes post-award conditions such as site access for verification and compliance monitoring. Questions regarding the program may be directed to the Maryland Energy Administration via the designated program email, and applicants are encouraged to consult all official materials to ensure full compliance with program requirements.

Apply early due to first come first served funding; ensure contractor is approved before submission; complete Step 1 before installation or application will be rejected