Maryland Solar Access Program (MSAP) Now Accepting Applications for FY26 – Updated July 21, 2025
The Maryland Energy Administration (MEA) is now welcoming applications for the Fiscal Year 2026 Maryland Solar Access Program (MSAP), starting July 21, 2025. According to Lumina Solar, eligible solar PV projects with contracts signed on or after June 13, 2025, may qualify, provided the installing contractor has successfully applied for and received approval to be on the FY26 MSAP Participating Contractor List. All relevant program details, such as the Funding Opportunity Announcement and MSAP Consumer Protections Policy, are now available for review.
Contractor Applications Now Open for FY26
SOLAR INSTALLERS TAKE NOTE: The FY26 Participating Contractor List application portal is now active. Solar PV installation companies interested in joining the program should examine the requirements and submit their applications promptly.
About the FY26 Maryland Solar Access Program
Program Objective
The Maryland Solar Access Program (MSAP), administered by the Maryland Energy Administration (MEA), supports income-eligible residents in adopting solar photovoltaic (PV) systems for cleaner, more affordable energy. Established through the Brighter Tomorrow Act of 2024 (Chapter 595, 2024 Acts of Maryland), this initiative is codified under §9-2016 of the State Government Article. Lumina Solar recognizes the significance of this effort in expanding solar accessibility.
How the Program Works
This first-come, first-served program assists qualified Maryland homeowners in installing solar PV systems. Detailed income and eligibility criteria can be found in the Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) available in the Program Documents section. As mandated by law, the application involves a two-step procedure—outlined further in the Program Structure section below.
Program Structure
The FY26 MSAP operates as a non-competitive initiative with awards distributed in the order applications are received. Applicants first submit an initial form to secure funding, followed by a final verification once installation is complete. Lumina Solar notes the simplicity of this approach.
Policy Note: Dual Funding Restrictions
Solar PV systems that have previously received funding through MEA’s Solar Energy Equity Grant Program (SEE Program)—whether via county/municipal governments or nonprofit organizations—are not eligible for MSAP grants. MEA will automatically reject any MSAP application if SEE Program funding is detected, with no exceptions permitted.
Application Period
Open: July 21, 2025, 12:00 PM ET
Close: June 5, 2026, 12:00 PM ET
Key FY26 Program Update
MEA will consider solar PV contracts dated June 13, 2025, or later for FY26 MSAP funding, contingent upon the installer’s successful inclusion in the Participating Contractor List. Lumina Solar recommends early preparation for interested parties.
Online Application Portal
MEA’s streamlined Online Application Portal offers a user-friendly experience with these features:
- Account creation for easy access
- Save-and-resume functionality for applications
- Real-time application status tracking
- Contractor option to apply on behalf of clients (with proper authorization)
Begin by registering for an account or logging in. Your data remains secure, enabling you to modify submissions as needed.
Contractor Participation Requirements
All solar installers participating in MSAP (“Participating Contractors”) must adhere strictly to the FY26 MSAP Consumer Protection Policy. Approval from MEA is mandatory before undertaking any MSAP-funded projects. Approved contractors will be publicly listed on the program website.
Contractor Application Windows
Solar installation companies have two chances to apply for FY26 MSAP participation:
| Offering Period | Dates |
|---|---|
| First Window | July 8, 2025 – September 8, 2025 |
| Second Window* | December 15, 2025 – March 3, 2026 |
*Dates subject to adjustment based on utility rate publication schedules
