Maryland 2023 Regular Session

Maryland Senate Bill SB469

Introduced
2/3/23  
Refer
2/3/23  
Report Pass
3/6/23  
Engrossed
3/10/23  
Refer
3/18/23  
Report Pass
4/5/23  
Enrolled
4/7/23  
Chaptered
5/8/23  

Caption

Task Force to Study Solar Incentives

Impact

If enacted, SB469 would create a pathway for more robust solar energy initiatives in Maryland by examining existing programs and proposing enhancements. This includes evaluating the impact of federal solar incentives and determining how best to increase community participation in solar development. The task force is expected to focus on ensuring equitable access to renewable energy, fostering quality job creation within the solar sector, and providing tailored measures to support diverse community needs in solar implementation.

Summary

Senate Bill 469, also known as the Task Force to Study Solar Tax Incentives, establishes a task force to analyze and recommend ways to enhance the installation of rooftop and community solar energy systems in Maryland. The bill recognizes the state's renewable energy goals and the necessity to balance solar development with the preservation of prime agricultural and forest lands. The task force is charged with studying various aspects of solar energy, including the effectiveness of current tax incentives and potential changes to improve the competitiveness of Maryland's solar energy market against other states' offerings.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB469 appears to be generally positive, with support emerging from various stakeholders, including environmental advocates and members of the solar industry. The proposed task force aims to include voices from diverse backgrounds, which reflects an understanding of the multifaceted implications of solar energy development. However, concerns may arise regarding the balance between promoting solar energy and the preservation of local agricultural and forestry interests, suggesting that some stakeholders may demand careful consideration of land use.

Contention

While the bill signals an important step forward in solar energy policy, potential contention could arise in discussions about land use and the prioritization of solar development over agricultural needs. Additionally, how effectively the task force's recommendations are implemented may also become a point of debate, particularly if certain communities feel underrepresented. The overall success of SB469 may hinge on navigating these complexities to achieve a consensus that accommodates both renewable energy advancement and local community interests.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MD HB1250

Task Force to Study Solar Energy Incentives

MD SB733

Task Force to Study Transparency in Tax Incentives

MD SB625

Low-to-Moderate Income Solar Financial Incentives Fund and Program; financial incentives.

MD HB486

Task Force to Study Nonpublic Student Bus Transportation

MD SB805

Nuclear Energy Development Task Force

MD HB820

Nuclear Energy Development Task Force

MD SB324

Task Force to Study Nonpublic Student Bus Transportation

MD SB209

Task Force to Study Crime Classification

MD SB528

Climate Solutions Now Act of 2022

MD HCR45

Creates the Louisiana Solar Siting Task Force to study the impact of, and alternatives to, locating solar energy developments on farmland

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