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The Maryland Energy Administration announced the opening of the annual application window for the Solar Canopy and Dual Use Technology Grant Program, which provides funding for installing solar power systems in parking garages and lots. This grant program enables Marylanders to maximize the benefits of their parking areas, turning them into producers of electricity, while also often providing shelter from adverse weather. The agency anticipates Fiscal Year 2025 program funding of up to $4.8 million.
“Parking garages and lots across Maryland hold untapped potential to be major contributors to our energy production formula, and this program helps their owners realize their full potential as sources of clean energy,” said Maryland Energy Administration Director Paul G. Pinsky. “For Maryland to achieve its clean energy goals, we must find new and creative ways to maximize our production of renewable energy, and this program does exactly that.”
The FY25 Solar Canopy and Dual Use Technology Grant Program, which is open now through Wednesday, October 23, 2024, provides grants to support the installation of solar photovoltaic systems on parking lots and parking garages. The agency also will consider applications for projects demonstrating other dual uses, such as installing solar to power microgrids that bolster critical infrastructure. For example, solar canopy microgrids that support more than one critical community businesses, like a grocery store, hardware store, pharmacy or gas station, can receive an added incentive.
Businesses, public universities, nonprofit educational institutions, local governments and Maryland state agencies are eligible for the competitive, statewide program. Grants of up to $400,000 are offered for projects that install new solar canopies, and up to $550,000 grants are available for solar canopies that provide power to microgrids that support critical infrastructure.
Questions about the Solar Canopy and Dual Use Technology Program may be directed to Program Manager David Comis at David.Comis@Maryland.gov or 410-537-4064.
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Source: Solar Power World
