Author: MCEC Staff Published: 2/4/2026 Maryland Clean Energy Center
Fueling clean energy progress in Maryland through finance, innovation, and deployment.
MONTHLY SPOTLIGHTS
PJM Pushes Back Price Increases
On February 12, the PJM Interconnection Board of Managers released a decision to extend the capacity market price cap through 2030. The decision follows advocacy efforts by the Moore-Miller Administration and other governors to protect consumers and businesses from rate hikes. The decision is anticipated to save 67 million consumers an estimated $27 billion on utility bills. You can read more about the decision here.
MCEC NEWS
It’s Back: Retrofitting for Residents
Thanks to action taken by the Maryland Public Service Commission, Marylanders will once again have access to the Clean Energy Advantage (CEA) Loan Pilot Program. Authorized through the end of 2026, the CEA Loan Program—a program of MCEC—provides Maryland residents with 0% APR loans of up to $50,000 for home upgrades like A/C, heating, insulation, windows, and more. Applications will open in the coming months—visit the MCEC website to learn more about the CEA Loan Program.
MCEC EVENTS
Pushing Your Project Forward: Clean Buildings
Ready to move a building decarbonization project from concept to completion? Join the Maryland Clean Buildings Hub and MCEC for a deep dive into the journey of building upgrades.
What you’ll learn:
- How to combine multiple funding sources to cross the finish line
- How MCEC can assist with procurement and project management
- Real-world case studies of successful Maryland projects
This virtual event will take place on March 26 and is free to attend. Visit the MCEC website to register or learn more.
OPEN OPPORTUNITIES
HVAC on the House
Do you know someone whose home is in need of a tune-up? The Sustain Our Future Foundation is offering free residential energy efficiency improvements thanks to a $2.2M award from the Maryland Energy Administration. Qualifying projects include HVAC installation, weatherization, and health and safety testing. Visit the Sustain Our Future website for more information.
OUT & ABOUT
Jackpot! Policy, Partnership & Progress
The 2026 Legislative Reception in Annapolis was a HUGE success! From discussing trending policy solutions to making meaningful connections, the takeaway was clear: When we work together, Maryland wins. We will be posting photos from the event on our website over the coming weeks, where you can find an initial selection.
Thank you to all of our attendees, speakers, and sponsors who made this event possible!
Power Pitches: Ideating Climate Tech
In February, the Maryland Energy Innovation Accelerator (MEIA)—a program of MCEC—co-hosted the Vicinity Energy Ideation Program Finale, where climate tech entrepreneurs pitched project concepts with the potential to address real-world challenges facing district energy systems. Attendees were joined by 30+ lawmakers and energy industry representatives for presentations from Maryland innovators, of which three were recognized for their work related to data centers, heat pumps, and energy concepts.
Regulatory Strategy: Lessons from Nordic Nations
MCEC staff were in attendance for the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners 2026 Winter Policy Summit at the Swedish Embassy in Washington, D.C. Bringing together regional energy leaders, the event explored how trending strategies and solutions used by Nordic countries can power the future responsibly while mitigating the impact of data center and AI growth. The countries represented included Denmark, Norway, Finland, and Sweden.
PARTNER EVENTS
DERs in DC
Join Electrify DC on March 21 for a policy-focused event designed to accelerate the shift towards Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) as a tool to increase energy-affordability, stabilize the grid, and allow participation in the energy market. A companion event to the consumer-focused Healthy Homes Fair, attendees will get a hands-on showcase of the latest DER technologies, cross-sector discussion with homeowners and renters, and insights into available policies and potential next steps. Visit the Electrify DC website to learn more.
Exploring Energy Performance Contracting
The Maryland Department of General Services (DGS) Office of Energy and Sustainability is hosting a workshop on March 11 for state and local stakeholders interested in advancing energy performance contracting (EPC) in Maryland. This workshop will highlight opportunities, available resources, and best practices for using EPC to reduce energy use and emissions. Participants from state agencies, local governments, public education, and supporting organizations will gain practical insights and information to help move EPC projects forward within their jurisdictions. Learn more on the DGS event page.
Maryland Clean Energy Center | 5000 College Ave., Ste. 31010 | College Park, MD 20740 US
