News Detail

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
9/23/2025

Contact: Tim Zink | 443-758-7344

Maryland’s College and University Campuses Eligible for $8 Million in New Clean Energy Grants

Investments to support renewable energy systems that cut operating costs, expand classroom and workforce training opportunities

BALTIMORE – The Maryland Energy Administration today announced the availability of $8 million to help the state’s higher education institutions install solar energy systems. Through the Higher Education Clean Energy Program, the agency aims to create sustainable, energy-efficient campuses that serve as practical learning environments and hubs for renewable energy education and job creation.

Now in its second year, the Fiscal Year 2026 Higher Education Clean Energy Program grants support solar installations, campus-level clean energy and sustainability planning, curriculum development, and workforce training across Maryland’s colleges and universities. These investments reduce carbon emissions and can prepare students with the skills and experience needed to thrive in the renewable energy and sustainability sectors.

“Higher education institutions are engines of innovation and progress, where the next generation of leaders, researchers and professionals are prepared to shape our future. They represent the cutting edge of technology and learning, and their campuses can serve as living laboratories for the ideas that move society forward,” said Maryland Energy Administration Director Paul G. Pinsky. “By investing in clean energy and sustainability curricula, Maryland is positioning its colleges and universities to lead the transition to a decarbonized future.”

This year’s program offers up to $1 million for solar installation, $145,000 for Campus Clean Energy Master Planning, and additional bonuses for Clean Energy Sector Course Development and student internships.

The agency is accepting applications now through November 14, 2025, at 3:00 PM ET. Full details on eligibility, program guidelines, and the application process can be found on the program webpage.

For more information or questions, please contact Kristen Keim, Decarbonizing Public Schools Manager, at [email protected] or 443-571-6976.

The Maryland Energy Administration promotes clean, affordable, reliable energy and energy-related greenhouse gas emission reductions to benefit Marylanders in a just and equitable manner. For more information about the agency and its programs, visit our website at Energy.Maryland.gov, and follow us on social media: LinkedIn | X | Facebook.