Maryland House Bill HB1195

Maryland 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/11/26
• Refer: 2/11/26

Caption

Net Energy Metering, SUNRISE Program, and Community Solar Energy Generating Systems Program (SUNRISE Act)

Impact

The proposed changes under HB 1195 are expected to centralize the management of community solar energy generating systems, providing more targeted support for low-income households. Additionally, by conditioning certain program benefits on electric bill savings, the bill aims to make renewable energy more accessible and affordable for disadvantaged communities, while also promoting a shift towards sustainable energy practices within the state. Electric companies will be mandated to accept capacity reservations for qualified systems automatically, thereby enhancing their operational efficiency regarding net energy metering.

Summary

House Bill 1195, also known as the SUNRISE Act, aims to enhance net energy metering by requiring the Office of Home Energy Programs to administer programs specifically for low- and moderate-income households. This legislative effort will enhance the roles and responsibilities of electric companies in managing net energy generation and its impact on statewide capacity limits. A significant innovation introduced in this bill is the creation of a statewide capacity reservation system for certain net energy metering projects, which seeks to create a more structured approach to renewable energy generation and consumption.

Contention

Discussions surrounding HB 1195 may revolve around the balance between empowering local energy programs and maintaining a centralized state framework. Some stakeholders may argue that the bill could limit local entities’ autonomy in managing energy programs, while supporters posit that a statewide approach will streamline processes and improve overall efficiency. There may also be concerns regarding the financial implications for electric companies in implementing the new programs, as well as the adequacy of provisions made for low-income households, especially in regard to the scheduled electric bill savings and overall administration of the program.