Empowering Maryland Businesses: Community Solar Benefits

Maryland’s Uncapped Solar Program: A Revenue-Generating Opportunity for Businesses

Maryland is redefining the solar energy landscape, becoming a premier destination for businesses seeking front-of-the-meter (FTM) solar opportunities. With uncapped solar programs and bold renewable energy policies, Maryland offers a unique and accessible pathway for commercial property owners to turn unused spaces into reliable revenue streams. Unlike states such as  New Jersey and  Illinois, where solar programs are capped and highly competitive, Maryland’s open framework provides unparalleled opportunities for businesses to lead in clean energy adoption.

Community solar, a key component of Maryland’s clean energy initiatives, enables businesses and residents to benefit from solar energy without owning or maintaining individual systems. Through this model, hosting companies play a critical role by leasing their rooftops or land for PV system installation, receiving lease payments in return. This approach expands access to renewable energy while providing predictable revenue streams for property owners.

Anchored by the state’s ambitious Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS), which targets 50% renewable energy by 2030, Maryland’s community solar initiatives go beyond sustainability—they offer tangible financial benefits. These programs unlock the potential for predictable, long-term income for commercial property owners while showcasing their leadership in the energy transition. By capitalizing on Maryland’s forward-thinking approach, businesses can align their operations with cutting-edge energy solutions, secure competitive advantages, and contribute meaningfully to a greener future.

Monetizing Unused Space While Elevating Sustainability and Property Value

Maryland’s FTM solar programs allow commercial property owners to unlock financial opportunities while meeting corporate sustainability goals. By hosting photovoltaic (PV) systems on underutilized spaces – such as expansive warehouse rooftops or vacant land – businesses can generate consistent income streams and improve their property’s net operating income (NOI). Lease payments can reach up to $100,000 per megawatt per year, making Maryland’s uncapped solar programs lucrative for generating revenue without operational investment.

In addition to financial benefits, hosting FTM solar systems enhances property value by improving cap rates and increasing investor appeal. These programs also help participants meet Scope 3 emission reduction targets, reinforcing their ESG commitments and positioning them as leaders in the energy transition. Companies enhancing their operations with renewable energy strengthen their competitive edge and boost their brand equity, showcasing their dedication to profitability and sustainability.

By monetizing unused spaces and embracing clean energy, Maryland businesses can achieve holistic benefits, securing long-term growth and environmental impact.

The Business Case for Maryland’s FTM Solar Program

Unlocking Predictable Revenue Streams

Community solar is on a strong growth trajectory nationwide, with states like New York and Illinois contributing significantly to the expansion of installed capacity. Maryland’s uncapped FTM solar program provides a unique opportunity to replicate and surpass these successes. By incentivizing solar adoption and optimizing underutilized rooftops and land, Maryland can further elevate its position as a leader in renewable energy. The projected growth of community solar, as illustrated in the chart, underscores the scalability and impact of these programs in driving a sustainable energy transition.

This straightforward and scalable program allows businesses to monetize their space while benefiting from stable, contracted income over time. Maryland’s program delivers financial predictability and growth potential for property owners seeking ways to maximize their assets.

Advancing Corporate Sustainability Leadership

Above all, Maryland’s FTM solar program delivers more than just financial rewards—it provides a strategic pathway for businesses to lead corporate sustainability. By hosting solar systems, companies actively contribute to renewable energy generation, significantly reducing Scope 2 emissions when the energy is used for their operations, or Scope 3 emissions when the energy supports their broader supply chain. This dual impact helps companies meet environmental commitments while advancing their standing as leaders in renewable energy.

Aligning with renewable energy goals through Maryland’s program demonstrates a company’s ability to balance profitability with purpose. It enhances ESG performance, strengthens brand equity, and sends a clear message to stakeholders: this is an organization committed to innovation, resilience, and meaningful environmental impact. Hosting FTM Solar isn’t just a compliance move—it’s a bold leadership statement in a rapidly evolving market.

How Catalyze Empowers Businesses to Lead in Solar Adoption

Simplifying the Transition to Solar

Transitioning to solar doesn’t have to be complicated—Catalyze ensures it’s seamless, stress-free, and impactful. From initial planning to ongoing maintenance, Catalyze takes care of every step, allowing businesses to focus on their operations while reaping the rewards of solar energy.

With Catalyze’s turnkey approach, Maryland businesses can unlock the full potential of their properties without worrying about the complexities of solar development. Whether securing financing, navigating incentives, or managing construction, Catalyze’s team handles it all with precision and expertise. The result? Predictable income streams, enhanced property value, and a significant step forward in achieving sustainability goals.

Tailored Solutions for Commercial Property Owners

Catalyze partners with Maryland businesses to transform underutilized rooftops and land into consistent revenue streams. With a deep understanding of Maryland’s solar programs, we design custom solutions that maximize lease income, boost property value, and align with sustainability goals—all while minimizing complexity for property owners.

We take a hands-on approach, ensuring every project is optimized to meet business objectives. From crafting high-value lease agreements to navigating program incentives, the team makes hosting solar systems straightforward and rewarding. Businesses can trust Catalyze to unlock the full potential of their properties while staying ahead in the energy transition.

Proven Leadership in Driving Energy Transition

Catalyze has a track record of empowering businesses to turn sustainability ambitions into tangible success stories. Our projects not only deliver measurable financial returns but also enable companies to meet and exceed their ESG targets, setting the standard for leadership in renewable energy.

By seamlessly aligning solar solutions with corporate sustainability goals, we help businesses elevate their brand equity, positioning them as innovators in the clean energy transition. Maryland businesses can trust Catalyze to deliver transformative results, reducing emissions, driving long-term profitability, and enhancing their competitive edge in an evolving market.

With Catalyze as a partner, businesses don’t just adopt renewable energy—they lead the way, redefining what’s possible for their industry and communities.

Conclusion

Maryland’s uncapped FTM Solar program offers businesses an unmatched opportunity to monetize unused space, generate consistent income, and enhance sustainability. Catalyze’s proven expertise in developing tailored solar solutions ensures that property owners can maximize returns while making a meaningful contribution to renewable energy goals.

Want to learn how your business can turn unused space into revenue while advancing sustainability? 

Sign up for our webinar to discover the unmatched opportunities Maryland’s community solar program offers!