Apply Now! SolarAPP+ Implementation Grants Now Available

MEA has recently opened applications for the SolarAPP+ Implementation Grant Program. The deadline to apply is April 1st, 2025. 

The Maryland Energy Administration has opened applications for the FY25 SolarAPP+ Implementation Grant Program. This federally-funded incentive program provides grants to Maryland’s Counties and Municipalities to help pay the costs of implementing the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) SolarAPP+ streamlined solar permitting software.

The Maryland General Assembly passed the Brighter Tomorrow Act (Chapter 595, 2024 Acts of Maryland, S.B. 783) earlier this year, requiring all authorities having jurisdiction over solar energy system permitting to adopt streamlined solar permitting software. The Maryland Energy Administration has determined that the SolarAPP+ software meets the requirements of the Brighter Tomorrow Act and will provide grants through the Program to Counties and Municipalities to help pay the costs of implementing the software.

More Information on SolarAPP+:

SolarAPP+ is a free, cutting-edge online solar permitting software developed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. 

By implementing SolarAPP+, your jurisdiction can:

  • Streamline residential solar permitting at no cost
  • Save valuable time and resources
  • Integrate with existing permitting software systems
  • Prepare for future expansions into EV technology permitting

Program Highlights

  • Funding Available: Approximately $3.9 million in total
  • Eligibility: All Maryland counties and municipalities that issue solar permits
  • Application Deadline: April 1, 2025, at 3:00 P.M. ET
  • Grant Formula: Base award plus additional funding based on population demographics

Grant funds can be used for:

  1. Staff training
  2. Integration with existing IT permit systems
  3. Developing new procedures
  4. IT resources for SolarAPP+ implementation

How to Apply:

  1. Submit a complete application with required documents using our jotform portal
  2. Provide an overview of your jurisdiction and current solar permitting process
  3. Describe resource needs and provide a cost breakdown