The Maryland Energy Administration (MEA) is launching more than $5 million in grants across three separate programs to support resilient and clean energy projects.

Fiscal Year 2021 programs now accepting applications include: Combined Heat and Power (CHP), Parking Lot Solar PV Canopy, and Resilient Maryland.

The Combined Heat and Power (CHP) Grant Program will offer $3.3 million through in two rounds, with the first application due on October 2, 2020. CHP systems are best used in many types of facilities like wastewater treatment plants, hospitals, and multifamily housing facilities.

The MEA Parking Lot Solar PV Canopy program will provide $1.6 million in funding to allow grant recipients to transform parking lots and garages into solar generating assets. Awardees must add electric vehicle charging stations. Applications close on December 8, 2020.

The Resilient Maryland program hopes to drive growth in the adaption of microgrid technology by providing grants to local governments and organizations. FY 21 has $600,000 in funding, following a successful pilot project last year. Microgrids provide a variety of benefits to communities. They help ensure local and affordable energy solutions for consumers through reduced transmission length, providing efficiency in energy production and consumption. Additionally, microgrids interface well with renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, and geothermal technology. Microgrids can operate independently and therefore avoid disturbing the larger grid, while maintaining the ability to supplement or supplant energy needs as necessary. Applications are due January 29, 2021.

For more information, view MEA’s press release.