Residential Energy Equity

The Residential Energy Equity Program, administered by the Maryland Energy Administration, aims to improve energy affordability and resilience for low- to moderate-income Maryland residents by supporting energy efficiency and solar energy installations in residential properties. Previously known as the Energy Efficiency Equity and Solar Energy Equity Grant Program, it continues the state’s commitment to reducing household energy burdens and promoting equitable access to clean energy technologies. The program provides financial assistance through two areas of interest—AOI1 for energy efficiency and electrification measures in both renter- and owner-occupied homes, and AOI2 for solar photovoltaic (PV) installations available only to owner-occupied residences. Through AOI1, the program funds comprehensive or limited energy efficiency upgrades including weatherization, HVAC and water heating electrification, appliance replacement, and enabling repairs necessary to complete these upgrades. AOI2 supports solar installations ranging from 3 kW to 15 kW per dwelling, sized to meet up to 95% of annual electricity needs. Grantees may pursue either a direct ownership model—where residents own the panels outright—or a zero-cost power purchase agreement model, in which the grantee retains ownership and provides electricity at no cost for twenty years. In both areas, projects must achieve defined cost-effectiveness metrics based on energy savings payback thresholds. The program accepts applications from local governments and incorporated nonprofit organizations registered in Maryland. All funded projects must directly benefit low- and moderate-income households as defined by the Strategic Energy Investment Fund statute. Eligible buildings include single-family homes and multifamily structures up to four units, provided at least one is owner-occupied for AOI2. The grant covers 100% of allowable costs up to specified per-home caps and allows up to 15% of the total award for combined administrative and indirect costs. Additional provisions allow for training assistance to staff obtaining recognized energy or solar installation certifications. A total of $25,246,905 in program funding is available, with $17,246,905 allocated to AOI1 and $8,000,000 to AOI2. Individual AOI1 awards begin at $105,000, with at least 25% of funds reserved for first-time applicants, while AOI2 awards range from $30,000 to $1,500,000. The grant cycle spans two years, and all projects must be completed by September 1, 2028, with final reporting due October 1, 2028. The program anticipates issuing up to 60 total awards across both areas. Applications are due by December 18, 2025, at 3:00 PM EST and must be submitted electronically to the MEA at residentialenergy.mea@maryland.gov. Required materials include a completed application workbook, W-9, proof of good standing, nonprofit determination letters, and applicable technical documentation such as sample audit or system design reports. Questions may be directed to the program manager, Angel Saules, at angel.saules@maryland.gov or (443) 814-0368. All submissions will undergo a competitive review assessing project feasibility, cost-effectiveness, greenhouse gas reductions, prior performance, and contractor readiness, with awards subject to regional distribution and available funding.

Attend information session; emphasize cost-effectiveness metrics and regional impact in application narrative.