Governor Wes Moore has announced the launch of the Local Government Energy Modernization Program, a major new funding opportunity to accelerate clean energy planning and deployment across Maryland’s incorporated towns, cities, and counties.

Administered by the Maryland Energy Administration (MEA), the program will provide $64 million for planning and capital projects that reduce utility costs, modernize infrastructure, and advance Maryland’s goal of reaching net-zero emissions.

“It isn’t enough to ask Marylanders to see themselves in the consequences of the climate crisis; they need to see themselves in the progress,” said Governor Moore. “Investments in climate action drive new infrastructure projects, support our work modernizing the grid, and strengthen our pledge to act as disciplined stewards of the taxpayer dime. That is what today’s announcement is all about.”

The Local Government Energy Modernization Program represents a strategic move from outdated, inefficient systems toward smarter, cleaner energy infrastructure. This one-time funding aims to jumpstart budget savings by supporting community-scale clean energy projects that lower energy bills, improve grid reliability, and reduce long-term supply costs—benefiting both local governments and their residents.

MEA Director Paul G. Pinsky emphasized that the program’s flexibility will allow it to address each jurisdiction’s priorities:

“These grants will help save money for county and local governments by investing deeply in clean energy at the local level. This can free up funding for other critical public services. The agency designed this program to be flexible enough to be tailored to local priorities so that every Maryland county — regardless of size or income — can take meaningful steps forward to cut costs and combat climate change.”

Program Highlights

• Two Funding Pathways: Formula-based block grants and competitive project grants for innovative clean energy initiatives.

• Equitable Access: Income-based cost-share structure to ensure rural and underserved counties can fully participate.

• Eligible Projects: HVAC upgrades, solar installations, energy audits, building insulation improvements, and other energy efficiency or renewable energy enhancements.

Application Deadline: Friday, December 5, 2025, at 5 p.m.

For details and application materials, visit the Local Government Energy Modernization Program webpage or contact Lacey Allor at [email protected]