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HB0039
HB0039: Net Energy Metering for Portable Solar Systems
Last scannedAug 22, 2026, 4:24 AM
In one sentence
This bill allows eligible customers in Maryland to use portable solar systems under net energy metering programs.
What it does
- Adds 'portable solar' as a type of facility that can be used by an eligible customer-generator for net energy metering.
- Defines portable solar as a moveable system with a capacity limit of 120 kilowatts measured by the inverter's AC rating.
- Requires these systems to connect through a standard 120-volt outlet and meet National Electrical Code standards.
- Allows customers who generate more power than they use to carry over their extra energy credits for up to one year or indefinitely, depending on their choice.
- Prohibits electric companies from adding new fees like standby charges that would raise the minimum monthly charge above standard rates.
Who it affects
- Customers in Maryland who own, lease, or contract with a third party to operate portable solar systems
- Electric utilities serving these eligible customer-generators
Limits and unknowns
- The provided text ends before fully explaining how electric companies must handle indefinite credit accrual for municipal utilities or cooperatives.
- The bill sets a statewide cap of 3,000 megawatts for all net energy metering facilities but does not specify separate limits just for portable solar systems.
Plain language
Terms to know
- Net Energy Metering
- A billing method that measures the difference between electricity supplied by an electric company and electricity generated by a customer and fed back to the grid.
- Portable Solar
- A moveable solar system designed to connect through a standard 120-volt outlet with a capacity not exceeding 120 kilowatts.
- Net Excess Generation
- The amount of electricity generated by a customer that is more than what they consumed, resulting in a negative reading at the end of their billing cycle.
Official record
Sources
Official summary
Authorizing the use of a certain portable solar electric generating facility by an eligible customer-generator for the purpose of net energy metering.
Official activity
Bill history
- In the House - Unfavorable Report by Environment and Transportation; Withdrawn