Maryland Renters: How Solar Power Credits Can Lower Utility Bills

Solar energy isn’t just for homeowners. As a Maryland renter, you may be eligible to save money on your electricity bills thanks to the state’s solar power credits and community solar programs. Understanding your rights, how to access these savings, and where to find help can make a big difference in your monthly expenses.

Understanding Solar Power Credits for Maryland Renters

Maryland’s community solar program allows renters to participate in solar projects and benefit from credits on their utility bills, even if you don’t own your home or have solar panels installed. These programs are encouraged by Maryland law and are designed to make renewable energy more accessible for everyone.

What Are Community Solar Programs?

In a community solar arrangement, a solar farm or large solar installation produces energy that is divided among multiple households—including renters. You agree to subscribe to a portion, and receive a credit on your monthly utility bill for the energy produced. Your savings will depend on how much of the solar energy you subscribe to and your total energy usage.

• Renters do not need landlord approval to join a third-party community solar project, as long as no equipment is installed in the unit.
• You can join or leave programs without penalty, provided you follow the subscription terms.
• Credits are applied directly by your utility—usually BGE, PEPCO, or Potomac Edison.

Legal Protections and Maryland Utility Laws

As a renter, Maryland’s Public Utilities Article § 7–306 guarantees access to Maryland’s community solar energy programs.^[1] For general rental rights and utility billing, refer to the Maryland Real Property Code § 8-203.^[2]

How Solar Credits Show Up on Your Bill

Once enrolled in a community solar program, you’ll see a line item on your regular utility bill for the solar energy credits. These credits reduce the overall amount you owe. If you have questions about mysterious charges or believe your utility billing is incorrect:

• Contact your utility company’s customer service (BGE, PEPCO, or Potomac Edison).
• If the issue is not resolved, you may file a formal complaint with the Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC).

Forms and Filing a Utility Complaint in Maryland

If you are having issues receiving your solar credits, billing disputes, or have concerns about utility disconnections related to landlord practice, the Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC) is the official body to help resolve these issues.

Official Form: Utility Complaint Form

• Form Name: Utility Complaint/Inquiry Form
• When Used: Use this form if your utility provider (such as BGE) does not resolve your issue about solar credits, billing, or service.
• How to Use: Complete the online form or printable PDF and submit to the PSC. For example, if your bill does not show expected solar credits, complete the form describing your issue. The PSC will investigate.
• Submit Utility Complaint Form – Maryland PSC

If your landlord is improperly charging for utilities, you can also contact the Office of the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division for rental disputes: File a Rental Complaint – Maryland AG.

Key Steps for Maryland Renters to Save with Community Solar

• Check your eligibility by visiting official Maryland Community Solar information.
• Compare community solar programs in your area. Most do not require landlord approval since no installation is needed in your home.
• Sign up and provide your utility information.
• Monitor your bills for solar credits. If issues arise, use the official utility complaint process.

FAQ about Solar Power Credits and Maryland Renters

1. Can I join a community solar program if I rent and don’t have roof access? Yes, community solar lets renters subscribe to off-site solar projects—no roof or property access required.
2. What if my utility bill does not show the solar credit? First, contact your utility. If still unresolved, file a complaint with the Maryland PSC.
3. Does my landlord have to agree for me to join a program? Not if no equipment is installed on your rental unit. You can subscribe directly.
4. Who do I contact if my landlord incorrectly charges me separately for solar power? You can report this to the Maryland Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division.
5. Are there any risks to my rental agreement for joining a solar program? There are generally no legal risks if you don’t install physical equipment, but always review your lease and communicate with your landlord for transparency.

Conclusion: What Maryland Renters Should Remember

• Community solar makes Maryland solar energy savings accessible even if you rent.
• If billing disputes or credits are missing, official complaint forms and government agencies can protect your rights.
• Always use government resources and keep clear documentation of your participation and billing.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maryland Public Service Commission – Official utility and solar program regulator
• Maryland PSC Utility Complaint Form – File or check status of a utility or solar credit complaint
• Maryland Attorney General Consumer Protection Rental Complaint
• Review Maryland Real Property Code – Tenant Rights for rules about utility billing and landlord-tenant law
• Maryland Community Solar Pilot Program – State-run guide and FAQ

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1. [1] Maryland Public Utilities Article § 7–306 – Community Solar Energy Generating Systems
2. [2] Maryland Real Property Code § 8-203 – Security Deposits & Rental Protections
3. [3] Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC) – Residential Utilities
4. [4] Maryland PSC Utility Complaint Form
5. [5] Maryland Attorney General – Rental Complaint Process

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