Top 7 Reasons to Go Solar in Maryland

Solar energy has become increasingly popular in recent years, and Maryland is one state that has embraced this sustainable and renewable power source. With a combination of government incentives, a commitment to renewable energy, and increasing consumer demand and energy prices, Maryland has experienced exponential growth in solar installations.

This article will delve into the reasons why going solar in Maryland is an appealing decision for homeowners and businesses. From the environmental benefits to the financial and sales tax incentives, you will better understand why solar energy is a smart choice for Maryland residents.

As you read, you will discover critical factors that have contributed to the rise of solar energy in the state. By the end of the article, you will have a clear and well-informed perspective on the benefits and reasons to consider adopting solar power in Maryland.

1. Reduction in Energy Bills

One of the primary reasons for Maryland residents to consider going solar is the potential for a significant reduction in their energy bills. A solar panel system allows homeowners to generate clean energy, reducing reliance on traditional energy sources. As a result, they can substantially lower their monthly expenses related to energy consumption.

Maryland offers a variety of solar incentives that make the adoption of renewable energy even more appealing. Benefits like the Residential Clean Energy Rebate Program provide eligible homeowners with a rebate of up to $1,000 for installing solar panels. Furthermore, the state has implemented favorable net metering policies, enabling solar system owners to earn credits for any excess energy they produce and contribute back to the grid.

In addition to lower energy bills, going solar can also increase a home’s value. Studies have shown that homes equipped with solar panels are often perceived as more desirable and eco-friendly, leading to higher resale values. This means that investing in renewable energy not only benefits the environment but also serves as a financially advantageous move in the long run.

To summarize, here are the main benefits of going solar in Maryland:

• Clean energy: Solar panels produce renewable energy, reducing your carbon footprint and contributing to a greener, more sustainable future.
• Reduced energy bills: Generating your electricity with a solar system helps to significantly lower your monthly energy costs.
• Financial incentives: Maryland offers multiple incentives, such as rebates and tax exemptions, to encourage homeowners to adopt solar energy.
• Increased home value: Solar-equipped homes tend to have higher resale values, making solar panels a wise long-term investment.

By taking advantage of Maryland’s solar incentives, homeowners can reduce their energy bills while increasing their home value, saving money, and contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable future.

2. Increase Home Value

Going solar in Maryland can significantly increase your home’s value. Installing solar panels is not only an eco-friendly choice, but it’s also an intelligent investment for homeowners. Many potential homebuyers find properties with solar panels more attractive due to the long-term financial benefits they offer.

According to Zillow, the average home in Maryland is $389,341, and solar panel installation can increase this value by around 4.1%, or roughly $15,963. It’s important to note that this added value is more significant when homeowners own the solar panels outright or use solar financing.

Moreover, solar panel installation can benefit homeowners through tax credits. The federal solar tax credit, also known as the Investment Tax Credit (ITC), allows homeowners to deduct 30% of the solar installation cost from their federal income taxes, reducing their overall investment in the solar system. In addition to the ITC, Maryland offers state-level incentives like the Residential Clean Energy Grant and the Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) program, making it even more affordable to invest in solar power. These incentives can further increase your property’s value.

Homebuyers are becoming increasingly aware of renewable energy sources’ financial and environmental advantages. As a result, there is a growing demand for homes with solar panels. By installing solar panels, homeowners can attract more potential buyers when it comes time to sell, reducing the time their property is on the market.

Going solar in Maryland offers multiple benefits, including increased home value, tax credits, and reduced carbon footprint. It is a long-term investment that can make a property more attractive to potential homebuyers while also providing financial advantages for the current homeowner.

3. Maryland Specific Rebates and Programs

Maryland offers a variety of solar incentives and programs to encourage residents to switch to clean energy. One such program is the Residential Clean Energy Grant Program. This initiative provides a $1,000 rebate for homeowners who install solar energy systems at their primary residence, which must be smaller than 20 kW. Additionally, the installer must have a standard NABCEP certification.

Another essential aspect of Maryland’s solar incentives is the Investment Tax Credit (ITC). This federal program offers homeowners a tax credit for a percentage of the cost of installed solar panels. 2023, the ITC will provide a 30% credit on solar system costs. This credit will be received after filing your taxes.

Maryland is also participating in the Solar Renewable Energy Certificate (SREC) Program, which allows residents to earn certificates for every megawatt-hour of solar energy produced by their systems. These certificates can be sold to utility companies to help them meet renewable energy requirements, providing an additional income source for solar system owners.

Maryland introduced the High-Efficiency Electric Home Rebate Program to promote energy efficiency further. This program aims to provide financial incentives to eligible participants, focusing on those who meet specific income qualifications.

Overall, Maryland demonstrates a commitment to promoting renewable energy use by offering various incentives, tax credits, and rebates to residents considering solar power installations. As the state aims for 50% renewable energy by 2030 and clean electricity by 2040, these programs help facilitate the transition to a more sustainable and eco-friendly future.

4. Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SRECs)

Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SRECs) are a significant incentive for homeowners and businesses in Maryland looking to switch to clean solar energy. These certificates are tradable commodities representing the environmental benefits and clean energy solar installations produce. Each time a solar energy system generates 1,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity, it creates one SREC, which can then be sold or traded in Maryland’s clean energy market.

The value of SRECs is determined by supply and demand, with buyers typically being electricity suppliers who must meet state-mandated Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS). In Maryland, the requirement for renewable energy is set at a minimum, which means a consistent demand for SRECs. Consequently, sellers benefit from a relatively stable market. For example, in Maryland, the average value of an SREC is around $60.

Earning SRECs serves as an additional income stream for solar energy system owners, on top of savings from reduced electricity bills. To further encourage the adoption of solar power, state and federal tax credits and local rebates are also available to Maryland residents. For instance, the Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) allows homeowners to claim up to 30% of the cost of installed solar panels as a tax credit.

Solar Renewable Energy Certificates are an essential financial benefit for those considering solar power in Maryland. The combination of SRECs, tax credits, and rebates makes solar energy investment a desirable and rewarding option for residents transitioning from fossil fuels to cleaner and more sustainable energy sources.

5. Return on Investment and Payback Periods

Investing in solar panels in Maryland demonstrates positive financial outcomes for homeowners. The average 25-year savings on energy bills range from $48,059 to $58,739, making the investment worthwhile. Payback periods determine a homeowner’s return on investment (ROI).

The payback period refers to the time it takes for homeowners to recoup their initial investment in solar panels. In Maryland, the average payback period falls between 6.1 to 7.5 years. Once homeowners pass the payback period, they can enjoy significant energy cost savings.

In addition to savings, the value of solar systems is further enhanced by various financing options and incentives available in Maryland. Homeowners must consider all their options while evaluating a solar system’s ROI. Some popular financing options include solar leases, power purchase agreements (PPAs), and solar loans.

Net metering and energy buy-back programs also contribute to a homeowner’s ROI. Maryland supports net metering, which allows homeowners with solar systems to receive credits for any excess energy they produce and send back to the grid. These credits lower the homeowners’ energy bills and, thus, improve the solar system’s overall ROI.

Homeowners in Maryland can significantly benefit from installing solar panels on their properties. Going solar can be a financially sound decision with a relatively short payback period and long-term energy bill savings. Moreover, various financing options and incentives can further enhance the potential ROI and make solar energy a viable option for many homeowners in the state.

6. Financing and Leasing Options

When considering solar energy in Maryland, it’s essential to be aware of the various financing and leasing options available to homeowners. These options make solar power more accessible and affordable for many residents.

There are four main ways to pay for a solar photovoltaic system in Maryland, each with advantages and disadvantages. These include:

1. Paying cash upfront
2. Financing a system through a loan
3. Signing a solar lease
4. Signing a power purchase agreement.

For those looking to pay cash upfront, it’s important to remember that the cost of an average residential solar system in Maryland can range between $15,000 and $29,000. However, this can be an intelligent investment, considering that electrical bills could add up to more than $41,973 over the next 25 years.

Financing a system through a loan allows homeowners to spread the cost over a long period, making solar systems more affordable in the short term. Maryland offers several solar incentives, such as tax credits and rebates, which can help reduce the upfront cost of the home solar system. Additionally, some Maryland counties provide property tax credits to homeowners who install solar panels.

Solar leasing and power purchase agreements (PPAs) are alternative options for those who want to go solar without upfront costs. Companies like Sunrun offer solar financing for Maryland homeowners, where they purchase and maintain solar panels, and homeowners pay for the solar electricity generated by the system. This way, homeowners can enjoy the benefits of solar energy without bearing the total cost of purchasing and maintaining the system.

There are various financing and leasing options for Maryland residents looking to invest in solar energy. It’s essential to carefully examine these options and choose the one that best suits your financial situation and energy needs.

7. Federal and State Tax Credits

One significant reason for Maryland residents to consider solar energy is the availability of both federal and state tax credits. On a federal level, homeowners can benefit from the ongoing Investment Tax Credit (ITC)program. This initiative offers a tax credit that covers 30% of the cost of installed solar panels. The ITC effectively reduces the overall expense, making solar power more affordable for homeowners.

In addition to the federal tax credit, Maryland offers its own incentives for residential solar power systems. The state provides a one-time grant of $1,000 to install a rooftop solar system. Moreover, Maryland residents with installed solar power systems may also qualify for the Residential Clean Energy Grant Program. This initiative offers additional financial support and aims to promote clean energy use in the state.

Here is a brief overview of the federal and state tax credits available for Maryland homeowners:

• Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC): 30% of the cost of installed solar panels
• Maryland State Grant: One-time $1,000 grant for rooftop solar installations
• Residential Clean Energy Grant Program: Offers financial support for clean energy users

Combining these tax credits and incentives can lead to significant savings for Maryland residents who want to invest in environmentally friendly and cost-effective solar power solutions. By taking advantage of these financial benefits, homeowners can positively impact the environment and their pocketbooks.