Resilient Maryland Program

The Resilient Maryland Program, administered by the Maryland Energy Administration, offers substantial funding for planning and implementing distributed energy resources (DERs), including microgrids, resilient facility power systems, and resiliency hubs. The program is structured to enhance energy resilience and reliability across Maryland, especially within low- and moderate-income communities and vulnerable populations. It aims to decrease reliance on traditional utility power, mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, and provide essential backup energy during emergencies or outages. The initiative supports Maryland's broader climate and economic strategies by safeguarding critical infrastructure and expanding clean energy access. Funding is divided across three key Areas of Interest (AOIs). AOI 1 supports preconstruction planning with grants for feasibility analysis, engineering design, financial modeling, and risk assessment. AOI 2 funds construction and commissioning of DER systems, specifically covering capital costs for equipment purchase and installation. AOI 3 focuses on resiliency hubs in low-to-moderate income communities, providing funding for combined solar PV and battery storage systems that serve as community lifelines during outages. Each AOI has clearly defined funding caps and cost-share requirements, which vary based on the applicant type and project category. Eligible applicants include Maryland-based local governments, state units, nonprofit organizations, and for-profit businesses. Applicants must be legally authorized to operate in Maryland and be in good standing with the state’s Department of Assessments and Taxation. Projects must be located in Maryland, with additional siting and demographic requirements applying specifically to AOI 3. Applicants must also demonstrate site control (ownership or lease with approval), the ability to meet a cost match, and readiness to enter into a formal grant agreement. Applications must be submitted through the designated online portal by December 31, 2025, at 3:00 P.M. ET. Required components include a completed application form, project proposal, detailed budget workbook, relevant planning documents (for AOI 2 and 3), proof of property control, and additional attestations for AOI 3. The Project Planning Committee must include at least one representative each from the community, local government, and the local electric utility, with supporting letters required. Evaluation is competitive and based on specific criteria, including project justification, scope and technical design, budget realism, stakeholder engagement, and planning quality. Grants are awarded based on final scores, with the possibility of partial awards depending on available funding. Performance timelines extend through December 31, 2030. The program operates on an annual cycle, with recurring opportunities anticipated.

Strong stakeholder documentation and clear resiliency benefits are emphasized in scoring. Ensure preconstruction deliverables are well-developed and utility engagement is verified.