ANNAPOLIS, Md. — Maryland school districts will have access to $36 million in new funding to expand clean energy systems and implement energy-saving technologies, Governor Wes Moore announced Friday. The funds are part of the Decarbonizing Public Schools Program, which supports projects that reduce energy consumption, cut emissions, and improve school facilities.
Energy costs are typically the second-largest expense for districts, and the program’s investments aim to free up funds for educational programs. Now in its third year, the initiative covers a wide range of projects, including electrification and other high-performance upgrades in K-12 public schools across the state.
Maryland Energy Administration Director Paul G. Pinsky said the program allows schools to model sustainable practices for students and communities while lowering operating costs. “K–12 schools are more than classrooms. They serve as the heart of communities where people learn, play, vote, and come together in times of need,” he said. The grants are funded by the Maryland Strategic Energy Investment Fund, which reinvests proceeds from greenhouse gas-emissions auctions and utility compliance payments into programs designed to reduce energy bills, create jobs, and improve reliability and resiliency.
Governor Moore has also emphasized broader energy relief efforts. Last week, he joined legislative leaders to announce $200 million in direct rebates for Maryland ratepayers, providing two payments to cover rising energy costs through early 2026.
In June, the governor launched the Customer Relief Fund, distributing $19 million to limited- and middle-income households through nonprofit partners. Maryland also joined the Northeast States Collaborative on Interregional Transmission in May to develop a plan for interregional transmission improvements aimed at lowering costs and strengthening energy reliability. Applications for the Decarbonizing Public Schools Program are being accepted until November 21 at 3 p.m. ET. More information is available at energy.maryland.gov.
Maryland Governor Wes Moore | Photo: Maryland.gov
Maryland Energy Association Director Paul G. Pinsky | Photo: energy.maryland.gov