
Are Solar Panels Worth It in Maryland? Weighing the Pros and Cons
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The Average Cost of Solar Panels in Maryland (Before Incentives)
Solar energy has emerged in Maryland as a popular and viable renewable source, providing clean energy and helping residents become energy-independent. Investing in solar panels is becoming increasingly attractive, that being said, are solar panels worth it in Maryland? Before diving into these benefits, it’s essential to understand the average cost of solar panels in the state overall.
Are Solar Panels Worth It In Maryland? TL;DR
Yes, solar panels are generally considered worth it in Maryland due to significant savings on electricity bills, shorter payback periods, and increased property values.
The typical cost of installing a solar panel system in Maryland before any credits or incentives is around $27,700. This number is based on the average per-watt price in the area, which is currently $2.77.
A more specific example, a 6kW solar system in Maryland, costs approximately $11,500 after accounting for the 30% federal solar tax credit. Considering the Maryland average, the cost per watt comes to $2.74, which is lower than the national residential solar power system average of $3.00.
It’s not just the initial cost that potential solar panel owners should consider; the return on investment (ROI) is equally essential. A solar panel system in Maryland has an average payback period of 11.09 years.
Over 20 years, homeowners can expect savings of around $19,548. Due to the state’s growing commitment to clean energy sources and the various financial incentives available, solar panels in Maryland are indeed a worthwhile investment.
Solar Incentives and Rebates in Maryland
In Maryland, several incentives and financial benefits are available for homeowners who decide to install solar panels. The Residential Clean Energy Rebate Program offers eligible homeowners a rebate of up to $1,000 for installing solar panels. This program operates annually on a first-come, first-served basis, making it essential for interested homeowners to act quickly.

Additionally, Maryland offers an income tax credit for energy storage systems, including solar batteries. This tax credit is also distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, as it can add significant value to a solar installation.
When considering the worth of solar panels in Maryland, it’s worth noting the potential increase in property value. According to estimates, the average home value in Maryland may increase by around 4.1% after installing solar panels, translating to an approximate $15,963 in added value. However, this benefit generally applies to homeowners who buy their panels outright or finance them through solar financing.
While the average cost of residential solar system installation in Maryland is $27,700 before applying any solar incentives, this is based on the presumption that Maryland residents typically install more solar panels (usually a 10-kilowatt system) to meet their high-energy demands. With the state’s incentives and rebates, the overall cost of installing solar panels can become more manageable for homeowners.
Cost of Going Solar in Maryland
The cost of going solar in Maryland has become more affordable in recent years as the average cost of solar panels has dropped. As of September 2023, the average cost of solar panels in Maryland is $2.74 per watt, making a typical 6,000-watt (6 kW) solar system $11,500 after claiming the 30% federal solar tax credit. This price is below the national average, currently $3.00 per watt.

A significant factor to consider when going solar in Maryland is the potential savings on electricity costs. Solar energy can help homeowners reduce their electric bills, especially considering Maryland’s relatively high electricity rates. Homeowners can expect a reduction in their electricity costs over time by generating clean, renewable energy from solar panels.
Considering the average cost for a 5 kilowatt (kW) solar installation in Maryland is $ 13,975 and $10,342 after the federal tax credit, individuals can determine their estimated savings on future electric bills by comparing their current electric bill to the anticipated electric production of a solar system.
With an average cost per watt of $2.67, homeowners can calculate their payback period using the amount they save on electricity costs.
Federal and State Incentives for Solar Power in Maryland
Solar power is becoming increasingly popular in Maryland due to various federal and state incentives available. One of the most notable incentives is the 30% federal tax credit, also known as the Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which substantially reduces the overall solar installation cost. This credit applies to both residential and commercial solar installations.

Sales tax exemption is another state-level incentive in Maryland. Purchasing solar equipment in the state does not require homeowners to pay any sales tax, making it more cost-effective for residents to start using solar power.
A property tax exemption is also available for those who have installed solar panels in Maryland. Under this incentive, homeowners with solar installations are not subjected to any increase in their property taxes due to the added value of their solar system.
Local incentives are also helpful for those considering solar power in Maryland. Energy companies and local governments may offer additional financial incentives or other support for residents to adopt solar technology.
Solar Power and Renewable Portfolio Standard in Maryland
Maryland has been actively increasing its commitment to renewable energy, focusing on solar power as a primary resource. The state established its Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) program in 2004, which aims to bring a significant portion of its energy consumption from renewable sources.
Under the RPS program, Maryland initially targeted to achieve 20% of the state’s consumed energy from renewable sources by 2022. Later, the program was revised with an increased target of 50% renewable energy by 2030, alongside a more aggressive goal of 100% clean electricity by 2040.

This ambitious plan has been facilitated through former Maryland Governor Larry Hogan’s Clean and Renewable Energy Standard (CARES) proposal, which sets the state toward zero carbon emissions. Solar energy has seen substantial growth in Maryland as part of the RPS program, with the solar capacity in the state increasing to over 258 megawatts.
This growth can be attributed to state and local solar incentives, including grant programs, tax credits, and low-interest loans encouraging residents and businesses to adopt solar energy systems. In addition, the state mandates a certain percentage of solar power within the RPS, creating a favorable market for solar energy.
Maryland Solar Panel Installation Costs vs. Energy Cost Savings: The Payback Period
In Maryland, the cost of solar panel installation varies depending on factors such as the size of the system and the specific location. The average price per watt for solar panels ranges from $2.57 to $3.47. The total cost of installing solar panels for a typical household can be around $19,548 before incentives and rebates.
A key advantage of installing solar panels in Maryland is the availability of financial incentives. For instance, the Residential Clean Energy Rebate Program offers eligible homeowners a rebate of up to $1,000 for solar panel installation. Additional incentives, such as the federal tax credit, can lower costs.

To determine the payback period for solar panels in Maryland, it’s crucial to consider the average energy cost savings over time. Depending on the size and efficiency of the solar system, the average 25-year savings are estimated to be between $48,059 and $58,739, making it a worthwhile investment.
The payback period is the time it takes for homeowners to recoup their initial investment in solar panels. In Maryland, the average payback period ranges from 6.1 to 7.5 years.
This period may vary depending on electricity rates and solar production efficiency. Still, it demonstrates that solar panels can be a valuable long-term investment for Maryland residents.
Although the initial cost might seem high, the long-term energy savings and environmental benefits make solar panels a worthwhile investment in Maryland.
Understanding Net Metering and SRECs in Maryland
Net metering and Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SRECs) are two important aspects when considering the value of installing solar panels in Maryland.
Net Metering in Maryland
Net metering allows solar panel owners to receive credit for the excess electricity their system generates and sends back to the grid. In Maryland, electric utilities and cooperatives must offer net metering to their customers until the capacity of net-metered solar systems in the state reaches 1,500 MW1. This helps solar panel owners offset their electricity consumption and lower their monthly electricity bills.
How do Maryland’s SRECs impact solar panel ROI?
SRECs are financial instruments that represent the environmental benefits of solar electricity production. In Maryland, solar system owners can earn and trade SRECs to utilities through the state’s SREC market. Each SREC in Maryland has a useful life of three years, meaning they can count towards compliance periods during their lifetime.

For every megawatt-hour (MWh) of electricity produced, owners earn one SREC. The value of SRECs can fluctuate based on supply and demand. Still, it can provide a significant source of income for solar panel owners. This additional revenue from selling SRECs ultimately helps improve the return on investment (ROI) for solar panel installations in Maryland.
Understanding net metering and SRECs in Maryland is crucial for accurately assessing the potential benefits of solar panel installations. These factors contribute to the overall attractiveness of solar energy for homeowners in the state.
Calculating Payback Period for Solar Panels in Maryland
The first step in calculating the payback period is to determine a solar panel system’s overall cost, considering equipment and labor expenses. For example, suppose a solar energy system costs $20,000 before incentives. In that case, homeowners in Maryland can benefit from federal tax credits that reduce this amount by 30% ($6,000), thus lowering the total cost to $14,000.

To estimate the annual energy savings from solar panels, homeowners must review their utility bills and calculate how much energy they consume. By comparing the energy production potential of the panels with the household’s energy usage, it’s possible to determine the annual cost savings.
For example, suppose a homeowner saves $2,300 per year on energy bills. In that case, the payback period can be calculated using the formula: Total Cost ÷ Annual Savings, which in this example would be $14,000 ÷ $2,300 = 6.1 years.
Additionally, factors such as changing utility rates can influence the payback period. As electricity prices fluctuate over time, the cost savings may vary. However, solar panel systems can still hedge against rising energy costs and bring long-term financial benefits.
What Should Maryland Homeowners Look Out For When Considering Solar?
The first factor homeowners should pay attention to is the quality of the solar installer. A reliable and experienced solar company is essential in ensuring the solar installation is completed smoothly and up to code. Researching and comparing different solar installers in Maryland is a good idea to determine which company can offer the best service, warranty, and customer support.

Another critical aspect to consider is the quality of the equipment used for solar panel installation. This will include the solar panels themselves, as well as the inverters and mounting system.
Homeowners should look for high-quality products with solid warranties that perform well over time. Top-tier solar companies often provide the best equipment. Still, it’s always essential to research and compare products to ensure they meet your specific needs.
Maryland homeowners should also be aware of the solar-friendly policies in the state. For example, the Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) sets a goal for the state to generate 50% of its electricity from renewable resources by 2030, with 14.5% coming from solar resources by 2028.
Additionally, rebates and incentives are available to help offset the cost of solar installation. Keeping current with these solar-friendly policies can help homeowners maximize their return on investment in solar energy.
Installation Factors to Consider
Finding a reliable solar installer is one of the most critical factors. With many solar companies in Maryland, researching and comparing their services, experience, and customer reviews can help homeowners make an informed decision.

Another significant aspect to consider is Maryland’s solar-friendly policies and incentives. The state offers numerous financial benefits and incentives for installing solar panels, including tax credits, rebates, and net metering programs. Understanding these incentives can help homeowners lower their initial investment and maximize long-term savings.
Regarding equipment, homeowners must choose the appropriate solar panels, inverters, and mounting systems for their specific needs and location. Opting for high-quality and efficient solar panels is essential to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Additionally, selecting the right size and capacity of the solar system plays a crucial role in meeting their energy requirements and budget constraints.
Lastly, considering the installation site is paramount. The energy efficiency of a solar energy system heavily depends on factors such as the roof’s size, angle, and direction, as well as any potential obstacles such as shading from nearby trees or buildings. Evaluating and discussing these factors with your chosen solar installer can help optimize the system’s performance and ensure the most cost-effective solution.
Potential Increase in Home Value
Investing in solar panels for your Maryland home can significantly increase your property’s value. According to a study by Zillow, solar installations can boost a home’s resale value by up to $5,911 per kilowatt of solar panels installed. Moreover, another estimation suggests that adding solar panels can lead to an increase of 4.1% in a home’s value.

This phenomenon occurs mainly because buyers tend to find energy-efficient and eco-friendly homes more attractive; solar-powered properties can generate considerable monthly savings on electricity bills and contribute to reducing the overall carbon footprint. An average homeowner in Maryland with a solar-equipped house might enjoy a significant increase in their home’s market value.
In addition to the direct increase in property value, Maryland homeowners who install solar panels could benefit from a property tax exemption. Under this state incentive, the added value of renewable energy systems like solar panels does not affect the property’s assessed value for taxation purposes. This exemption reduces the tax burden and encourages homeowners to invest in solar installations.
Solar Panel Leasing Vs. Buying
Leasing solar panels is an attractive option for homeowners who want to enjoy the benefits of solar power without the upfront costs of buying a system. With a solar lease, you pay a monthly fee to use the solar panels installed on your home, and the leasing company typically covers maintenance and repair costs.

This arrangement allows you to reap savings on your energy bill and minimize your carbon footprint without a significant initial investment. However, leasing solar panels provides different financial returns than purchasing the system outright, as you won’t be eligible for specific incentives, tax credits, and increased home value.
On the other hand, buying solar panels can offer significant long-term financial benefits. Although the initial costs can range from $15,000 to $20,000 after tax credits, owning your solar panels allows you to take full advantage of federal and state tax credits and local incentives.
Moreover, purchasing the system may increase your home’s value by around 4.1%, which translates to a potential added value of $15,963 for the average Maryland home. Additionally, owning your solar panels can significantly save your energy bill, often reducing it by 70% to 100%, depending on the system’s size.
Overall, leasing solar panels may be a more affordable option for homeowners who need more preparation for the upfront costs of buying a system.
However, purchasing solar panels outright provides numerous financial advantages, such as tax credits, incentives, increased home value, and the potential to completely eliminate your energy bill. Consider your circumstances and goals when deciding between leasing or buying solar panels for your Maryland home.
So, Are Solar Panels Worth it in Maryland?
Yes, solar panels are worth it in Maryland. The state provides favorable conditions for solar energy, making it a good investment for homeowners. The average cost of solar panels in Maryland is $2.83 per watt, slightly below the national average of $3 per watt. This lower cost, combined with various financial incentives, enhances the appeal of solar panels for homeowners in Maryland.

The federal Investment Tax Credit offers homeowners a tax credit for 30% of the cost of installed solar panels, which is a substantial saving when considering the total installation cost.
In addition to financial benefits, Maryland homeowners can also take advantage of the positive environmental impact of solar energy. Solar panels help offset carbon emissions from traditional electricity sources, contributing to a cleaner and greener environment in the state.
Solar panels are worth it in Maryland, as the state’s climate and sun angle plays a crucial role in determining the effectiveness of solar energy. The region experiences ample sunshine, making it easier for homeowners to generate enough energy to power their homes.
Solar panels are a worthwhile investment in Maryland due to the lower installation cost, favorable environmental conditions, and the availability of Maryland solar incentives and rebates. These factors, combined with the state’s commitment to renewable energy, make solar panels advantageous for homeowners seeking a clean and cost-effective energy source.