Maryland is a mid-Atlantic state that has been blessed with picturesque coastlines and sizeable waterways. It also receives an abundance of sunlight. On average, the state of Maryland receives 4.47 hours of sunlight per day and approximately 105 clear, cloud-free days each year. Hence, Maryland has enormous potential for the production of solar energy through the use of photovoltaic systems.
According to statistics, 80% of the roofs in Maryland are viable for the installation of solar panels and for the optimal production of solar energy. If this enormous potential is tapped in, this can result in annual production of 14.4 Million MWh AC of electricity. Doing so can set off 9.3 Million metric tons of carbon dioxide.
Some of the most notable commercial solar projects in Maryland include the Maryland Solar Farm which has a generation capacity of 20 MW of electricity. Multiple large retailers such as IKEA, Albertsons, and Delmarva Feed have also installed commercial solar systems at their premises.
Solar Incentives and Solar Friendly Legislation in Maryland
For the commercial growth of solar energy, the state of Maryland has introduced several solar incentives and solar-friendly legislation. Some noteworthy mentions are as follows:
Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS) Goals
Maryland is among the 30 states in the US that have introduced a Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS). It is a regulatory mandate which requires each state to enhance its electricity production through the use of renewable energy sources.
Mayland has set ambitious RPS goals according to which at least 14.5% of the state’s electricity generation requirements should be met through solar energy.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Act (GGRA)
Under the Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Act (GGRA), Maryland set an ambitious goal to reduce the emission of greenhouse gasses by 25% by the year 2020. In 2016, the goal was set to a higher standard of 40% reduction in emission by the year 2030.
Federal Investment Tax Credit
The Federal Business Energy Investment Tax Credit allows a 30% tax credit for the solar systems installed after December 31, 2019. This allows a significant reduction in the capital cost of solar systems.
Modified Accelerated Cost-Recovery System (MACRS)
This is another solar-friendly incentive that enables businesses to recover investments made in solar technologies through depreciation deductions.
Renewable Energy Credits
Renewable Energy Credit (RECs) are the quantifiable units for measuring the amount of energy generated by utilities and businesses through renewable energy sources such as solar and wind energy. One megawatt-hour of electricity generation through renewable energy resources equals to one REC.
RECs can be sold or purchased and they carry some monetary value. The financial benefit associated with RECs gives businesses an incentive to invest in renewable energy resources.
Following figures reveal the state of solar power in Maryland:
- Solar Installed (MW): 1,426.5
- National Ranking: 18th (27th in 2021)
- Percentage of State’s Electricity from Solar: 4.26%
- Solar Jobs: 4,565
- Solar Companies in State: 176 (12 Manufacturers, 100 Installers/Developers, 64 Others)
- Total Solar Investment in State: 3.8 billion
- Prices have fallen 4% over the last 5 years
- Growth Projection and Ranking: 1,161 MW over the next 5 years (ranks 28th)
- Number Of Installations: 79,267
Need For Solar Panel Disposal Solution
Maryland is making multiple efforts to tap its true potential for solar generation. Ambitious targets and solar-friendly legislation have put Maryland on a path of achieving energy sufficiency through the use of solar energy.
However, the rapid proliferation of photovoltaic technology also raises the alarming question about the decommissioning and disposal of end-of-life solar panels. Most experts agree that recycling old solar panels is the most cost-effective and eco-friendly waste disposal option for solar waste.
If you are looking for decommissioning of solar systems or large-scale solar panel recycling solutions in Maryland, contact We Recycle Solar. We provide recycling solutions for solar panels, batteries, and other equipment. Our processes are safe, efficient, and compliant with all federal and state laws.
Looking for decommissioning or large-scale Maryland solar panel recycling solutions?
Unless otherwise noted, all data from SEIA/GTM Research U.S. Solar Market Insight