Maryland House Bill 11 expands solar incentives to floating systems on non-navigable waters

House Bill 11 has taken a significant step forward in Maryland, expanding the Small Solar Energy Generating System Incentive Program to include floating solar energy systems on non-navigable bodies of water. This initiative allows systems generating between 20 kilowatts and 5 megawatts to qualify for incentives, although an amendment has introduced a crucial change: the blanket tax exemption for these floating systems has been removed. Instead, individual counties and Baltimore City will now have the authority to determine the extent of tax benefits for such projects.

During the discussion, concerns were raised about the environmental impact of covering water bodies, with one committee member expressing frustration over the Department of Natural Resources' (DNR) strict regulations on water use. Despite initial opposition, it appears that the amendments have garnered support from the Maryland Association of Counties (Mako), indicating a shift in perspective on the bill.

In a related discussion, House Bill 12 was also reviewed, which modifies the definition under the customer-sited solar program and expands the permissible uses of funds related to building and transportation electrification. This bill aims to include low to moderate-income households in its benefits, further broadening the scope of solar energy accessibility in Maryland.

As these bills progress, their implications for renewable energy development and environmental stewardship in the state remain a focal point for lawmakers and stakeholders alike.