Description

The Maryland Energy Administration (MEA) provides rebates for the installation of non-residential wind energy systems from 20 – 200 kilowatts (kW) through the Mid-Size Wind Energy Grant program. Rebates are based on the energy production capacity of the wind system at a reference speed of 11 meters per second (roughly 25 mph), which may differ from the rated capacity of the turbine as listed by the manufacturer. Participants are eligible for an incentive of $1,500 per kW of capacity up to $75,000 per site.

In order to qualify for the program, systems must comply with all applicable performance and safety standards, including local codes, the National Electric Code, Maryland’s net metering rules and interconnection standards. Off-grid systems are not specifically addressed by the program rules, but may be permitted on a case-by-case basis. Project applications must contain a site assessment, wind energy system specifications, signed cost estimates, a preliminary wind analysis, and pre-qualification forms detailing certain other aspects of the project. It is possible that some applications will be deemed ineligible based on site conditions (e.g., poor wind resource, obstructions, etc.).

Grants will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis while available funding lasts. The overall mid-size renewables program (PV, SWH, and wind combined) has a budget of $1.0 million through Fiscal Year 2011 ($500,000 for FY 2010 and $500,000 for FY 2011). For further information and application forms, please consult the program website listed at the top of this page.