Governor Moore Announces $6 Million in Equity for Solar Energy

ANNAPOLIS, Md. – Governor Wes Moore today announced that the Maryland Energy Administration is awarding $6 million for new projects through the Solar Energy Equity Program. The awards will help increase access to clean, renewable energy for low- and moderate-income Marylanders living in underserved or overburdened communities.

“Maryland is leading the clean energy transition and we will not leave anyone behind. We are excited to work with all of our partners to invest in communities with the greatest need across our state.” said Governor Moore. “These awards will create new jobs, help families save money, and put Maryland on track to meet our clean energy goals. It’s not enough for Marylanders to see themselves in the consequences of climate inaction; they must also see themselves in the progress — and that’s what this partnership is all about.”

Solar Energy Equity Program grants provide up to $25,000 per eligible household for solar repairs and installations. Participating homes must undergo an energy audit and make significant energy efficiency improvements. Awards are given through nonprofit organizations that engage contractors to install solar panels for free, including:

Building Change, Inc.
Building Change is a Prince George’s County nonprofit organization whose mission is to promote consumer empowerment through advocacy, thought leadership, education, and developing technology solutions to promote and fund healthy lifestyles, the built environment, community development, and sustainable building practices. The organization will receive a $2 million grant.

Civic Works, Inc.
Civic Works provides education, community improvement and energy conservation programs. As a long-time recipient of Maryland Energy Administration grants, Civic Works has developed an extensive network of Maryland clients who experience income challenges and have previously used energy audits, sealing and energy efficiency services. The organization will receive a $2.45 million grant.

Community Action Council of Howard County, Maryland, Inc.
The Community Action Council of Howard County is a nonprofit community service agency that benefits a wide range of clients who are struggling with income issues. In addition to being a long-time recipient of Maryland Energy Administration grants, the organization has received several grants on behalf of local, state and federal governments to support its mission, including Head Start, energy assistance, housing assistance, food assistance and weatherization programs. The organization will receive a $1.25 million grant.

Green and Healthy Homes Initiative, Inc.
The Green and Healthy Homes Initiative aims to address the social determinants of health and promote racial and health equity by creating healthy, safe, and energy-efficient homes. It has proposed integrating Maryland Energy Administration renewable energy funding with other funding sources to identify and install solar panels on low-income homes. The organization will receive a $300,000 grant.

“The Solar Energy Equity Program works with trusted partners to reach Maryland homeowners who would otherwise be left out of the pursuit of cleaner energy, simply because they could not afford to upgrade their properties.” said Paul G. Pinsky, director of the Maryland Energy Administration. “This program not only helps Maryland communities transition to cleaner energy, but also provides home repairs to enable solar installations, removing a common barrier to clean energy adoption. For those looking for proof that Maryland is serious about leaving no one behind on the path to progress, the Solar Energy Equity Program provides clear evidence of our unwavering commitment.”

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