Maryland's Community Solar Program Offers Utility Bill Relief

Baltimore residents can tap into renewable energy to reduce high electricity costs.

Apr. 4, 2026 at 4:41pm

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With rising utility bills a major concern for many Maryland residents, the state's Community Solar Program is providing an opportunity for Baltimore Gas and Electric customers to access renewable energy and potentially lower their electricity costs. The program allows residents to subscribe to a local solar project and receive credits on their utility bills for the solar energy produced.

Why it matters

As energy prices continue to climb, the Community Solar Program offers a way for Baltimore-area consumers to take control of their utility costs through clean, renewable power. The program aims to make solar energy more accessible, especially for those who may not be able to install panels on their own homes.

The details

The Maryland Community Solar Program, launched in 2017, enables utility customers to subscribe to a local solar project and receive credits on their monthly electricity bills for the solar energy produced. Subscribers pay a fixed rate per kilowatt-hour, typically lower than standard utility rates. The program is open to renters, homeowners, and businesses, providing an option for those unable to install solar panels on their own properties.

  • The Maryland Community Solar Program was launched in 2017.
  • The program is currently available to Baltimore Gas and Electric customers.

The players

Maryland Community Solar Program

A state-run initiative that allows utility customers to subscribe to local solar projects and receive credits on their electricity bills.

Baltimore Gas and Electric (BGE)

The utility company serving the Baltimore metropolitan area, which participates in the Community Solar Program.

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What’s next

Interested Baltimore residents can visit the Maryland Community Solar Program website to learn more about subscribing to a local solar project and the potential savings on their utility bills.

The takeaway

The Maryland Community Solar Program provides a valuable opportunity for Baltimore-area consumers to access renewable energy and potentially reduce their high electricity costs, making clean power more accessible to a wider range of residents.