Md.’s solar energy incentive plan for businesses

Posted: 4:43 pm Fri, November 6, 2009
By Daily Record Staff

The Maryland Energy Administration announced the launch of an incentive program Friday for mid-sized solar energy systems, made possible through funding from the federal economic stimulus package. This two-year program will provide a total of up to $1.45 million to lower the cost of rooftop solar energy systems for commercial buildings.

“Maryland’s mid-sized solar grant program is a true ‘win’ for local businesses and workers. By taking advantage of this new resource, not only will businesses see a reduction in energy usage and operational costs in the long term, but they will also become a part of a Maryland that is smart, green and growing by taking this step to reduce their carbon footprint, “ said Gov. Martin O’Malley. “I encourage local businesses to take advantage of this opportunity.”

The incentive program covers two technologies, solar photovoltaic which converts light into electricity, and solar water heating, which converts light into heat energy to supplement natural gas or electric water heating.

Through the Maryland Energy Administration’s grant program, Marylanders may qualify for up to as much as $500 per kilowatt for the first 20 kilowatts generated by a photovoltaic system, and up to 15 percent of the system cost for a solar hot water system; both systems have a cap of $25,000 per grant at this time.

“The challenge for many businesses is that the costs for solar energy systems are all upfront, while the benefits accrue over many years of use,” said MEA Director Malcolm Woolf. “The mid-sized incentive program, combined with the federal investment tax credit of 30 percent, is designed to help lower the upfront cost of these renewable energy systems so that businesses can continue to invest in clean renewable energy despite the difficult economy. We are thrilled to be able to serve the business community with this much-needed clean energy program.”