The Maryland Energy Administration announced that the state will provide $13 million through the Resilient Maryland Program for fiscal year 2026 (FY26) for distributed energy resource systems, such as solar panels combined with battery energy storage systems, to help critical infrastructure maintain essential services and reduce community vulnerability during power outages. This follows other state grant program announcements aimed at helping universities install solar projects and helping Maryland counties and municipalities automate and expedite residential solar permitting.
Systems funded through the Resilient Maryland Program help reduce dependence on utility-supplied energy, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect vital services from outages. These benefits strengthen 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 boosts critical infrastructure during times of crisis and stress. The grants can help keep the lights on at hospitals, community centers, wastewater treatment plants and emergency operations centers, maintaining essential functions during storms and power outages,” said Maryland Energy Administration Director Paul G. Pinsky. “Resilient Maryland grants can literally make the difference between life and death, and do so in a way that advances the state’s climate goals.”
The FY26 Resilient Maryland program includes several improvements, including:
- Expanded Eligibility: FY26 opens new participation pathways for local government agencies, nonprofits and critical community facilities seeking energy resilience solutions.
- Streamlined application process: Updated application materials and assessment criteria make applications more accessible and transparent.
- Tiered Financing Options: 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 will be given to projects in underserved or underserved communities, consistent with Maryland’s energy justice goals.
- The Resilient Maryland Program provides organizations with funding to develop and install distributed energy resources for critical and community use, such as resiliency hubs and microgrids, localized electric grids that can be connected to the traditional electric grid or independent.
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 the costs of feasibility analyses, planning, equipment and installation.
The agency will accept applications for the Resilient Maryland Program through December 31, 2025.
News release from the Maryland Energy Administration
