Quick Answer: What Solar Incentives Are Available in Maryland in 2026?
In 2026, Maryland solar incentives are centered around the Maryland Solar Access Program (MSAP), which offers grants up to $7,500. Homeowners can also benefit from Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SRECs), a 6% sales tax exemption, and local property tax credits (Anne Arundel County). While the federal 30% residential tax credit has expired, Maryland introduced a Bridge Fund to help offset that gap.
**As of April 15, 2026, 99% of MSAP funding is reserved for approved projects. Remaining availability is extremely limited and may already be tied to applications in process. The application is open until June 5, 2026 or until funding is exhausted, whichever comes first. Additional funding or a future program cycle is anticipated, though no official announcement has been released.
Top 2026 Maryland Solar Incentives
Maryland Solar Access Program (MSAP)
Provides $750 per kilowatt (kW) of installed DC capacity, with a maximum grant of $7,500 for eligible homeowners. Funding is first-come, first-served through June 2026. Eligibility includes income limits that vary based on household size.
Maryland Solar Access Bridge Fund
A 2026 program designed to replace the value of the expired federal Residential Clean Energy Credit for qualifying homeowners, helping maintain greater financial viability for residential solar projects.
Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SRECs)
Maryland homeowners can earn and sell SRECs based on system production. Typical lifetime value can reach around $3,000 to $4,000, depending on system size and market pricing.
Sales Tax Exemption
Solar equipment is exempt from Maryland’s 6% sales tax, reducing upfront installation costs immediately.
Property Tax Exemption
Solar installations do not increase property taxes. Some counties may also offer additional credits.
Local County Incentives
Anne Arundel County
Offers a one-time tax credit up to $2,500 for solar systems.
Baltimore County
Provides up to $5,000 for residential solar installations through the Energy Conservation Devices Tax Credit, though availability may depend on demand. Applications are not accepted after June 30, 2028.
Recent & Limited-Time County Programs
Some county-level programs are offered on a limited or pilot basis and may not always be active.
Prince George’s County Solarize Program (Solar Energy Grant)
Prince George’s County has previously offered Solarize-style programs that provide additional grant funding towards a residential solar system.
- The most recent application window has closed as of February 2026
- These programs are typically time-bound and fill quickly
- Similar programs may be introduced again in future funding cycles
Important Notes for 2026
Federal Credit Changes
The 30% Residential Clean Energy Credit (ITC) is no longer available for direct residential ownership.
System Requirements
To qualify for MSAP funding, systems must be installed by contractors approved by the Maryland Energy Administration (MEA). Funding is available on a first-come, first serve basis. Solar Energy Services is an MEA-approved contractor, meaning our projects meet program requirements for eligibility.
MSAP Funding Status (As of April 15, 2026)
As of the latest update from the Maryland Energy Administration:
- 99% of MSAP funding is reserved for approved projects
- Remaining availability is extremely limited and may already be tied to applications in process
The program is expected to run through June 2026. At this time:
- No official announcement has been made regarding renewal or additional funding
- Future program availability remains uncertain
Who Qualifies for Maryland Solar Incentives?
Eligibility varies by program, but most incentives apply to:
- Homeowners installing solar systems in Maryland
- Households meeting income requirements for MSAP
- Property owners working with MEA-approved solar contractors. Solar Energy Services is an MEA-approved contractor, meaning our projects meet program requirements for eligibility.
From a project standpoint, qualification often comes down to timing, contractor alignment, and program availability.
Next Step: Understand What’s Still Available
Solar incentives in Maryland are changing quickly, and availability can shift based on funding, location, and program requirements.
Our team works directly with current state and county programs and can walk you through:
- What incentives are still available today
- How MSAP status impacts your project
- Which local credits or programs may apply to your property
Connect with our team to review your options and get the most up-to-date guidance based on your location and eligibility.
Is the federal solar tax credit still available?
As of 2026, the federal solar tax credit is not available for directly owned residential systems. Solar and battery storage still offer strong value, helping homeowners reduce dependence on the grid, maintain power during outages, and create more predictable long-term energy costs.
Incentives and policies can change, and new programs may become available at the federal, state, or local level.
Are solar incentives still worth it in Maryland in 2026?
State programs like MSAP, along with SRECs and tax exemptions, continue to support solar adoption, though availability for some programs is now limited.
What happens if MSAP funding runs out?
If MSAP funding is fully allocated, applications pause until the next cycle. Our team tracks program availability and helps homeowners identify other incentives, as well as plan around future funding opportunities.
