Bill > SB1022

This bill expands the eligibility for community solar energy generating systems by allowing low- and moderate-income (LMI) subscribers to hold subscriptions to solar energy systems located in different electric service territories than where they reside. The bill defines key terms such as "community solar energy generating system" as a solar energy system connected to the electric grid that credits electricity to subscribers' bills, and "LMI subscriber" as someone who is low-income, moderate-income, or resides in an overburdened or underserved community. Currently, subscribers must typically be in the same electric service territory as their solar system, but this bill creates an exception for LMI subscribers. The legislation requires that LMI subscribers receive the same bill credit value regardless of their system's location and mandates that the Public Service Commission establish a process for exchanging community solar bill credits between systems in different electric service areas. The bill aims to increase solar energy access for renters and lower-income residents, support renewable energy development, and help Maryland achieve its renewable energy and greenhouse gas reduction goals, with the provisions set to take effect on October 1, 2025.