Solar panels are often marketed as a great way to save money on electricity, and, if you’re lucky, make some money, too. With electricity rates increasing by about 2.5%, it makes sense to consider getting solar panels.
But is it really a wise investment for everyone? Do they offer good value compared to other low-carbon energy options available? Is solar worth it in Maryland?
In short: Yes, it absolutely is! However, there are some considerations you should be aware of before making the decision.
General aspects to think about before installing solar panels
Whether solar is a worthwhile investment for you depends on several factors, such as:
The orientation of your property. Solar panels work best with south-facing roofs with a slope between 15 and 40 degrees. It’s also important that no trees or other structures obstruct sunlight.
The age of your roof. Although it’s possible to install solar panels on older roofs as well, you should make sure your roof will last as long as your solar panels.
Your future plans. Solar energy systems typically pay off after a decade of use. If you decide to move earlier, you might not see a return on your investment.
Electricity prices in your area and the availability of tax incentives. If electricity is already cheap, you won’t be able to save much. Likewise, it’s much better to invest in solar panels if you can take advantage of tax incentives or rebates.
So, what about Maryland? Is it a good place to install solar panels?
Maryland’s weather and climate conditions
When it comes to weather, Maryland never fails to surprise. Living here means you’ll experience everything from scorching heat to heavy rain. Nevertheless, these weather changes don’t affect how well solar panels work. In fact, the state receives an average of 4.2 to 4.7 peak sun hours per day, which is comparable to Florida. Even on days when the sun isn’t shining as brightly, solar panels can still generate significant electricity.
State incentives for going solar in Maryland
As a homeowner, you can take advantage of several state incentives and rebates for adopting solar. The best option, however, is the Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC). It credits 30% of the system’s total cost toward what you must pay on federal income taxes. This includes the cost of labor, equipment, and even permits.
There are other great programs to be aware of, like:
- The state’s solar rebate program. By getting a solar system for your home, you’ll get $1,000 from the government.
- Maryland also has a favorable net metering policy. This means you can send excess energy that your panels generate to the grid and get credit for your future bills.
- You can also benefit from the Maryland PV Grant, the Prince George’s Tax Credit, the Anne Arundel County Property Tax, the Maryland Solar Renewable Energy Certificate (SREC), and other great programs.
With so many options available, it’s clear that Maryland has a supportive environment for going solar.
How much does it cost to go solar in Maryland?
The price of switching to solar depends on many factors, like the complexity of the roof, its size, and location.
If you’re thinking about getting a solar roof, you should expect to pay around $10 to $12 per square foot for GAF Timberline solar shingles. Tesla Solar Roof tends to be pricier – around $21 to $25 per square foot.
The cheaper option is to get solar panels. However, you should keep in mind that they are usually more noticeable and may not match the look of your roof. The good news? Panels are easy to replace, and you can always service the roof underneath.
Final thoughts: Is solar worth it in Maryland?
Installing solar panels or a solar roof is no small investment, so homeowners have to consider the project from all angles. So, is solar worth it in Maryland? Although the state doesn’t rank high in solar adoption rates, its solar-friendly policies and plenty of sunshine definitely outweigh the potential drawbacks. Moreover, investing in solar is a great way to increase your home’s value! Some studies show1 that it will allow you to sell for 4.1% more on average.
If you’re interested in getting solar for your home, it’s important to partner with experienced solar professionals. At American Home Contractors, we offer tailored solar panel systems to fit your home’s unique needs. Curious to learn more? Contact our team today.
Fact Checked by Lita Legzdina on 05/31/2025
Sources
- Zillow Research. (2019, April 29). Homes with solar panels sell for 4.1% more. Zillow. https://www.zillow.com/research/solar-panels-house-sell-more-23798/ ↩︎