The Maryland Energy Administration announced that, through the Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) Resilient Maryland Program, the state will offer $13 million for distributed energy resource systems, such as solar canopies paired with battery energy storage systems, so critical infrastructure can maintain essential services and reduce community vulnerability during power disruptions. This follows other grant program announcements by the state aimed to help universities install solar projects and assist counties and municipalities across Maryland in automating and accelerating residential solar energy permitting.
Systems funded through the Resilient Maryland Program help reduce reliance on utility-supplied power, lower greenhouse gas emissions and safeguard vital services against outages. These benefits bolster Maryland’s critical infrastructure, support community lifelines, improve energy affordability for overburdened populations and advance the state’s climate and economic goals.
“The Resilient Maryland program galvanizes critical infrastructure in times of crisis and stress. Its grants can help keep the lights on in hospitals, community centers, wastewater treatment facilities and emergency operations centers, maintaining essential functions during storm and power outages,” said Maryland Energy Administration Director Paul G. Pinsky. “Resilient Maryland grants literally can make the difference between life and death and they do so in ways that advance the state’s climate goals.”
The FY26 Resilient Maryland Program features several enhancements, including:
- Expanded Eligibility: FY26 opens new participation pathways for local government agencies, nonprofit organizations and critical community facilities seeking energy resilience solutions.
- Streamlined Application Process: Updated application materials and review criteria make applying more accessible and transparent.
- Tiered Funding Opportunities: Planning, design and capital support options are available for projects at all stages of development, from initial feasibility analysis to construction-readiness.
- Equity and Community Focus: Priority consideration will be given to projects located in underserved or disadvantaged communities, consistent with Maryland’s energy justice goals.
- The Resilient Maryland Program provides funding for organizations to develop and install distributed energy resources for critical and community uses like resiliency hubs and microgrids, localized electrical networks that can operate connected to the traditional utility grid or independently.
Funding is available for preconstruction planning and system installation, with a focus on Maryland communities, businesses and critical infrastructure seeking reliable, clean and affordable energy solutions. Eligible entities can use the funds to offset feasibility analysis, planning, equipment and installation costs.
The agency will accept applications to the Resilient Maryland Program through December 31, 2025.
News item from the Maryland Energy Administration
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