Solar-friendly Maryland passes the Brighter Tomorrow Act
Summary
For example, last year the state passed a new community solar program that allows projects to exceed certain size limits if theyre built on specified site types, such as rooftops, brownfields, or industrial areas. Not surprisingly the state has made great strides in solar capacity, jumping from a ranking of 30th in 2023, according to SEIA, to 19th in 2024. The free web-based platform was developed for the purpose of lowering the costs and timeframe associated with solar permitting, and is said to cut about 12 days off the permitting process.The Maryland Energy Administration (MEA) received $4.48 million from the Department of Energy (DOE) to support adoption of SolarAPP+. Municipalities can also use SolarAPP+ to permit other forms of clean energy including home battery storage storage systems.The Brighter Tomorrow Act also supports a payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT) structure for ground-mounted solar installations, raises the cap on net metering and implements a solar renewable energy credit (SREC) multiplier as a bridge to long-term reforms.This achievement is a direct result of Marylands statewide taskforce to study solar incentives, and it will play a critical role in facilitating the states transition to clean energy and strengthening the electric grid for our communities, said Meredith. The solar and storage industry greatly appreciates the partnership from Governor Moore, state lawmakers, environmental advocates, and community organizations for delivering this win for Marylands economy and environment.