The goal of the Maryland Smart Energy Communities program is to support local governments as they adopt smart-energy policies and commit to them for the long term. Communities will benefit from sustained reduction of energy usage, cost savings, and additional opportunities for renewable energy development. Becoming a Smart Energy Community will result in:
- A grant from MEA to kick-start your energy goals and eligibility for future MSEC grants
- Reduced utility and fuel expenses
- Participate in local sustainability initiatives
- Greenhouse gas emissions reduction
- Statewide recognition as a leader in energy conservation and sustainability
What policies must be adopted?
Local governments must adopt at least two of the three following policies (policies are subject to change):
- Energy Efficiency
Establish an energy consumption baseline and develop a plan with the goal of reducing energy consumption of government buildings by 15% within five years of the baseline year.
- Renewable Energy
Reduce conventional centralized electricity generation from fossil fuel sources by meeting 20% of those building's electricity demand with distributed, renewable energy generation within five years of the baseline year.
- Transportation
A local government must establish a petroleum consumption baseline for all government vehicles, and establish a comprehensive program designed to reduce the baseline by 20% within five years of the baseline year.
What is the difference between a New and Existing MSEC community?
Communities not yet designated a Maryland Smart Energy Community enter the program through the New Community track and must adopt the policies outlined above. Existing Communities that have already achieved Maryland Smart Energy Community designation remain in the program provided they are making a good faith effort towards meeting their energy goals. Both New and Existing communities are eligible for MSEC grant funding. The MSEC Grant Program is available to all incorporated towns, cities, and counties in Maryland. All communities that apply for the program and meet the three deliverable requirements will receive funding based on population size and funding availability. Full project funds are made available only when communities complete the deliverables as specified by MEA. For FY19, up to $500,000 total is available for energy-efficiency projects only, subject to funding availability. Funding is to be divided between both existing and new MSEC communities.
Questions? Visit the Maryland Smart Energy Communities  FY19 MSEC FAQ for answers.
For more information, contact us via e-mail at MSEC.MEA@Maryland.gov or by phone at 410-537-4000. |
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