Solar energy programs stand a good chance of getting some notice from lawmakers during this legislative session, but environmental advocates still viewthe renewable energy source?s high cost as a stumbling block.
“Something needs to be done to boost the state incentives for solar power, and in the long run it has to be a big part” of the state?s turn toward renewable energy sources, Environment Maryland State Director Brad Heavner said.
A handful of delegates and senators have introduced bills this year designed to expand the state?s existing grant programs for solar power. And lawmakers in the forefront of energy legislation said solar power could become a component of a larger proposal to encourage development of renewable energy in the state.
Del. Susan Krebs, R-Carroll, has filed a bill that would expand the reimbursement percentage for homeowners and businesses that go solar. Under current law, the Maryland Energy Administration will reimburse up to 20 percent of the installation cost of solar?powered systems. Krebs? bill would increase the reimbursement rate to a maximum of 50 percent of the installation cost, or between $3,500 and $60,000.
“This leaves the MEA with more flexibility,” she said. “There?s $1.2 million in the budget for it, and last year. It wasn?t all used.”
Krebs said the low reimbursement rate made it difficult for homeowners to afford solar energy generators.
Del. Ann Marie Doory, D-Baltimore City, has introduced a bill that would fund the solar grant program with fees charged to power companies for compliance with renewable energy laws.
While additional state subsidies for solar power could encourage more people to consider it as a viable green energy source, Del. Dereck Davis, D-Prince George?s, chair of the House Economic Matters Committee, considers solar energy a small part of any comprehensive energy reforms.
“The leadership in general has made a commitment to renewable energy,” he said. “But solar energy in relation to need isn?t going to do it.”
