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The state of solar power in Maryland
Maryland is sometimes called "America in miniature." Within its 10,460 square miles, the state packs little bits of the nation's terrain into every corner - the only environment missing is desert. This doesn't just include topography; it also includes climate.
Mild spring months, humid summers, and brisk falls make Maryland an ideal place to generate solar power. Even during winter, Maryland averages 153 hours of sunlight per month. Over the entire year, Maryland gets more than 2,580 hours of sunshine.
How much solar power does Maryland produce?
According to the Solar Energy Industries Association, or SEIA, Maryland currently generates enough solar power to run 136,185 homes for an entire year. The state has invested over $3.2 billion and supports over 4,500 solar industry jobs through 241 companies.
Solar prices have fallen more than 32% over the last five years, which has resulted in Maryland getting 3.33% of its electricity from solar systems. The SEIA ranks the state at number 14 in the nation as a solar energy producer.
Is solar feasible in Maryland?
The National Renewable Energy Laboratory has tracked sunshine levels over eight years and determined that Maryland receives 3.5 - 4.7 kilowatt-hours per square meter a day.
How much does solar cost in Maryland?
Costs for solar panel installations will vary, depending on several factors. Here are some of the things that can affect the price of your system:
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Your home's location
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The pitch of your roof
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The material your roof is made of
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The size of your system
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The type of panels you choose
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Any storage systems you might add
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Local incentives and the Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC)*
- *. Incentives, rebates, and tax credits vary and are subject to change. SunPower does not warrant, guarantee or otherwise advise its customers about specific tax outcomes. Consult your tax advisor regarding the solar tax credit and how it applies to your specific circumstances. Please visit the dsireusa.org website for detailed solar policy information.
What legal considerations affect solar power in Maryland?
Maryland has several initiatives meant to assist residents in their purchase of a solar panel system at their homes and places of business. The Residential Clean Energy Grant Program allows homeowners to apply for grants for solar photovoltaic systems from 1 kW - 20 kW in size, so long as the property is not a historic building or held in trust.
You may be able to participate in a net metering program that pays you for the energy you return to the grid. Also, make sure you look into Solar Renewable Energy Certificates, a program through which you may get paid to help Maryland meet its clean energy goals.
For further incentives, loans, grants, and rebate programs make sure you check out the DSIRE database for your state. Also, be sure to check out your county government agency for more local incentives that may be in effect.
If you intend to connect your PV system to the grid, please be aware of any government requirements. You may need specialized equipment to transmit energy back into the grid safely, and your system will need to meet specific standards.
How can I start using solar in Maryland?
Starting is easy! Learn more about going solar and how SunPower can make it simple for you. Design your system and calculate how much you can save with our state-of-the-art panels.
Contact us and let us help you get the best system for your home. We'll also refer you to SunPower certified installation experts to start the process today.

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