Maryland officially commits to 50% renewables by 2030

Maryland’s commitment to 50% renewable energy by 2030 became law after Governor Larry Hogan allowed it to pass on May 22.

The 50% by 2030 RPS will include a jump from 2.5% in-state solar to 14.5% by 2030. The law also increases funding for clean energy workforce development.

The Clean Energy Jobs Act is exactly what it says it is: legislation that will allow Maryland to become a leader in clean energy by boldly and fully investing in solar, wind, and other sources, including the largest solar carve-out in the country. Maryland has set itself apart from its neighbors as a state that is committed not just to the economic freedom of its residents, but to their energy freedom as well.

Only the District and nine states, have renewable standards at 50 percent or higher, according to the Chesapeake Climate Action Network.

Hogan said he remains committed to addressing climate change. He pledged to push legislation next year for 100 percent clean energy by 2040. It is projected that the new law will create 20,000 solar jobs and 5,000 wind jobs by 2028.