Maryland Statewide Rule
Maryland Solar Net Metering Guarantee (Public Utilities §7-306)
Key Facts
- Statute
- Public Utilities §7-306
- Statewide cap
- 3,000 megawatts
- Meter type
- Two-directional required
- Rate treatment
- Identical to non-generator tariff
- Enforcer
- Public Service Commission
Summary
Maryland requires every electric company to offer eligible solar customer-generators net energy metering under Public Utilities §7-306, with a two-directional meter and a tariff identical in rates to non-generator customers, until statewide capacity reaches 3,000 megawatts.
An electric company serving an eligible customer–generator shall ensure that the meter installed for net energy metering is capable of measuring the flow of electricity in two directions.... The Commission shall require electric utilities to develop a standard contract or tariff for net energy metering and make it available to eligible customer–generators on a first–come, first–served basis until the rated generating capacity owned and operated by eligible customer–generators in the State reaches 3,000 megawatts.
Full Breakdown
Under Md. Code, Public Utilities §7-306, an electric company serving an eligible customer-generator must install a meter capable of measuring electricity flow in two directions and credit exported solar generation against consumption over the billing period. The Public Service Commission requires each utility to file a standard net metering contract or tariff, offered first-come, first-served until in-State customer-generator capacity reaches 3,000 megawatts. The tariff must be identical in energy rates, rate structure, and monthly charges to a comparable non-generator customer, and utilities may not impose new demand, standby, customer, or minimum monthly charges on solar owners. Systems meeting applicable safety standards cannot be forced to buy extra liability insurance or install additional controls.
Violations & Penalties
A utility that refuses net metering, imposes prohibited standby or demand charges, or requires unnecessary equipment is subject to Public Service Commission enforcement, complaint proceedings, and civil penalties under the Public Utilities Article.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Maryland require a special state permit for solar panels?
Can my utility charge extra fees for having solar?
Is there a limit on solar net metering in Maryland?
Sources
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.