Meeting Clean and Renewable Energy Goals

​​​Increasing Maryland’s use of clean and renewable energy for long-term security and stability.

Clean and renewable energy is a growing industry in Maryland at both the micro and macro levels. Jurisdictions from Appalachia to the Lower Eastern Shore are receiving new applications for large scale solar and wind energy developments at an accelerating rate. MEA provides tax credits, loans and grants to residents, community groups and businesses striving to reduce energy use or increase clean and renewable energy production. Solar farms do not have to displace traditional farms, and local planning agencies and organizations should have access to advanced tools for community energy projects and public education efforts.

As the 21st century unfolds, energy conservation, consumption and production will continue to grow in importance to economic and community development in Maryland. It is an interdisciplinary subject that impacts everything from jobs to the environment, and this Plan seeks to connect resources and expertise across state agencies, the clean and renewable energy industry and local stakeholders.

 



The Strategies

RE 1: Explore opportunities for interagency partnerships to use existing funding and programs to increase energy efficiency and on-site power generation at state facilities.

Timeline

2020
Years 2-4
2026

RE 2: Pursue statewide solar energy guidance on the siting of facilities, which considers land use compatibility and economic viability, and identifies associated state agency support.

Timeline

2020
Years 0-2
Years 2-4
2026

RE 3: Develop tools, educational materials and technical assistance that local governments and other entities and organizations (i.e., homeowner associations, community development corporations) can use for localized energy planning and implementation.

Timeline

2020
Years 2-4
Years 4-6
2026

RE 4: Partner with state and local housing programs to incorporate energy efficiency and solar options into the housing rehab programs.

Timeline

2020
Years 2-4
Years 4-6
2026

RE 5: Pursue interagency partnerships to educate and provide technical assistance to local governments and the public on best practices in promoting energy efficiency and use of clean and renewable energy resources.

Timeline

2020
Years 4-6
2026