Community Solar in Maryland: Expanding Access and Equity
Maryland continues to be a national leader in community solar, transforming how residents and businesses access clean, affordable energy. Community solar allows individuals to subscribe to a shared solar project—often located on a nearby farm, warehouse, or open field—and receive credit on their utility bills for the power produced. This means you can enjoy the benefits of solar energy without owning or installing rooftop panels.
In 2023, Maryland made community solar a permanent, statewide program, becoming one of the first states in the nation to do so. The new Community Solar Energy Generating Systems (CSEGS) Program, overseen by the Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC), expands participation across all utility territories and removes previous limits on the number of projects. This move positions Maryland at the forefront of equitable clean energy adoption and ensures long-term stability for developers and subscribers alike.
Making Clean Energy Accessible for All
Community solar is designed to democratize renewable energy. It’s particularly valuable for:
Renters and apartment dwellers, who may not have control over their roofs
Low- and moderate-income (LMI) households, who face financial or structural barriers to rooftop installations
Residents with shaded properties or unsuitable rooftops, who can now subscribe to off-site solar and still save money
Maryland’s CSEGS program mandates that at least 40% of the energy produced by each project be reserved for LMI customers, making it one of the most inclusive clean energy models in the country. According to the Maryland Energy Administration, participating households can expect to save up to 20% annually on their electricity bills, depending on their utility and project design.
A Booming Market for Developers
For solar developers, Maryland’s expanded community solar framework represents a fast-growing market opportunity. The state’s updated regulations streamline permitting and interconnection processes, offer long-term project stability, and open up new financing pathways. Combined with federal incentives from the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA)—including bonus tax credits for projects located in low-income or energy communities—developers can now achieve stronger financial returns while advancing equitable clean energy goals.
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) projects that community solar capacity nationwide could reach 20 gigawatts by 2025, powering nearly 5 million homes. Maryland’s program is expected to be a major contributor to that growth, with dozens of projects in development across counties such as Montgomery, Prince George’s, and Anne Arundel.
Opportunities for Property Owners
Community solar isn’t just a win for subscribers—it’s also an attractive venture for property and landowners. Leasing land for solar development offers a steady, long-term income stream while supporting Maryland’s renewable energy goals. Suitable sites include agricultural land, brownfields, and even underutilized commercial rooftops.
With electricity demand and land scarcity on the rise, hosting a community solar project can boost property value and diversify income for landowners—without requiring them to manage or operate the project themselves.
A More Inclusive Energy Future
Community solar represents more than a renewable energy initiative—it’s a movement toward shared prosperity and energy equity. Maryland’s leadership in making the program permanent sets an example for other states to follow. By embracing this model, the state ensures that clean energy savings reach every corner of society—from households and small businesses to entire neighborhoods.
With the right partnerships and forward-thinking policies, Maryland is showing that the future of energy is clean, inclusive, and community-driven.
Telkes: Your Partner in Community Solar Development
At Telkes, we bridge the gap between landowners, developers, and communities to make clean energy projects possible. We help identify suitable sites for community solar, connect stakeholders, and provide consulting support throughout the development process—from initial feasibility studies to long-term lease negotiations.
By partnering with Telkes, property owners and developers can confidently participate in Maryland’s thriving community solar program, helping to expand access, promote equity, and accelerate the clean energy transition.
Are you a landowner or an industrial roof owner? Join Telkes in leading the green energy revolution! Let us help you turn your property into a sustainable energy solution that benefits the planet. Visit Telkes today and discover how you can contribute to a cleaner future while maximizing your property's potential. Together, we can power a brighter, greener world!
