Maryland community solar pilot program to begin accepting applications
The Maryland Public Service Commission will soon begin accepting applications for its community solar pilot program following approval of utility tariffs this week.
Operators of community solar generating systems can apply to the Commission, starting April 10, for
initial approval to participate in the program. The operators, known as subscriber organizations, could
begin enrolling customers as early as this summer.
The program is designed to provide access to solar energy to consumers without requiring property ownership and incentivize solar companies to provide service to low- and moderate-income customers.
The program will set aside capacity for each section of the state with a statewide cap of 193 megawatts. About 60 megawatts will be set aside for projects with a high percentage of low- to moderate-income customers. The program will also include consumer protections, such as clear contract disclosure requirements and prohibition against unreasonable fees.
Approved projects received between April 10 and May 5 will be included in the first year of the pilot program until the program capacity is reached. Once approved, a subscriber organization must apply for interconnection with a participating utility, which accept projects on first-come first-served basis. Participating utilities include Baltimore Gas and Electric, Delmarva Power & Light, Potomac Edison and Potomac Electric Power Company.
