Moore Launches $200 Million Maryland Energy Grant Program

Governor Wes Moore announced the Megawatts for Maryland initiative on October 26, 2026. The program allocates $200 million to fund renewable power generation and battery storage projects.

The state will distribute up to $100 million annually through the Strategic Energy Investment Fund. Developers will compete for grants to finance large-scale facilities. This new capacity is expected to supply more than 150,000 homes each year.

State officials say electricity demand on the regional grid is outpacing current supply. They believe adding local generation will reduce pressure on utility rates. However, household bills will not drop immediately. New facilities must first secure financing, finish construction, and begin operating.

The Maryland Energy Administration will manage a competitive bidding process. Developers must submit preliminary applications by November 30, 2026. Qualified applicants have until January 22, 2027, to submit final bids. Grant awards will prioritize proposals that request the lowest public subsidy relative to electricity production.

The initiative was established under the 2026 Utility RELIEF Act. That legislation also provided $100 million in direct relief to utility customers. Moore has separately urged regional grid operator PJM to address rising costs driven by data centers and increased demand.