Maryland farmers can now apply for grants for solar canopies as part of a state program.

The Maryland Energy Administration is offering $700,000 in solar grants to state agencies, local governments, businesses, nonprofits, educational institutions and – for the first time – farmers operating as sole proprietors.

The Solar Canopy and Dual Use Technology Grant Program provides funds for eligible applicants to develop solar canopies over parking lots and parking garages.

Also for the first year, the program is piloting incentives for installing solar panels over bodies of water.

“We are excited and looking forward to opening up this program to Maryland farmers,” Maryland Energy Administration Director Mary Beth Tung said in a statement. “Adding this group will help expand the reach and access of solar canopies and leverage private ponds and other suitable bodies of water across the state.”

Through the program, applicants can receive $500 per kW-dc of new solar canopy or floating solar. A maximum of $250,000 will be awarded per project.

Applicants can also receive $200 per kW-dc for the installation of new solar PV modules on existing solar canopies. The maximum award is $100,000 per project.

Projects for solar canopies over parking lots and parking garages must include at least four Level 2 or 3 electric vehicle chargers.

The deadline to apply for the grants is Dec. 2 at 5 p.m.

For more information about eligibility requirements, the application process, and the grant program, visit the Maryland Energy Administration’s website, or contact Program Manager David Comis at david.comis@maryland.gov or 410-537-4064.

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