Hello, fellow solar enthusiasts!
In the solar sector, we often talk about how we’re powering into the future, and how the rays that shine down on us today can light up our world tomorrow. We are indeed fortunate to witness what is shaping up to be a radical transformation of the energy landscape. Let’s turn our attention to Maryland, a state that takes its green commitment very seriously, and one that has recently passed what has been referred to as “landmark legislation”: The Brighter Tomorrow Act or SB 783.
To start, it’s a fantastic time to get ahead of the crowd by installing solar panels for your home, thanks to this new legislation. One of the most significant steps that Maryland has made is supporting localities to adopt automated solar permitting. This move is expected to lower solar installation costs and make its SA (Solar Array) for home available for all residents, regardless of income.
For those of you unfamiliar with the solar lingo, a solar array is simply a group of solar panels linked together to generate electricity. Do you now see why I get a burst of energy every time a state makes strides towards solar?
Another progressive step is the introduction of a payment-in-lieu-of-taxes (PILOT) structure for ground-mounted solar arrays. This move will make it more financially viable for residents and solar companies to install solar projects. It also gives a nod to an economy that is evolving toward cleaner, renewable energy.
Now, if you’re new to the world of solar, navigating the options presented by different solar companies can feel like a challenge. That’s why it’s fantastic that the Brighter Tomorrow Act also raises the cap on net metering. Put simply, net metering is a billing mechanism that credits solar energy system owners for the electricity they add to the grid. So, you can look at it as a sort of reward system for going green!
For homeowners considering solar panels for their home, the availability of The Solar App+, a web-based platform, isn’t just a nice-to-have — it’s a godsend. It simplifies the permitting process, saving precious time and money. The platform was designed to facilitate the speedy adoption of Solar Arrays for Homes and other forms of clean energy, including home battery storage systems.
Lastly, the Bill also implements a solar renewable energy credit (SREC) multiplier. This is essentially a benefit given to solar energy system owners, allowing them to earn an income from the clean, renewable energy they generate.
This achievement is undoubtedly worthy of praise because it’s a stride towards a cleaner future. It’s a move toward a sustainable and affordable living for all of us. Kudos to all the states, solar companies, solar consumers, and every stakeholder in this sector who are making efforts to shoot for the sun—and succeeding.
Stay tuned for my next updates and keep shining, solar enthusiasts!
Original Articlehttps://pv-magazine-usa.com/2024/05/10/solar-friendly-maryland-passes-the-brighter-tomorrow-act/
