CHESTERTOWN, Md., May 21, 2026 — The Town of Chestertown is breaking new ground in clean energy leadership with the development of a large-scale, municipally owned and operated solar project. Supporting Governor Wes Moore’s vision to scale solar energy statewide for affordability, job creation, community resilience, and decarbonization, the initiative demonstrates how municipalities can translate clean energy commitments into measurable local benefits.
Construction is expected to begin in the coming months, with the project anticipated to be operational by early 2027. Once complete, it will deliver long-term energy cost stability, increased energy independence, and environmental and economic value for the community.
“Chestertown is proving that small towns can be clean energy leaders,” said Chestertown Mayor Meghan Efland. “By advancing our path to net-zero and keeping this project municipally owned, we’re ensuring that every dollar of savings strengthens our community. This is energy independence that works for local government and our residents alike.”
The comprehensive project features a 1.2-megawatt (MW) solar array that will power town operations, paired with a 1-megawatt community solar array providing discounted electricity to residents, including a dedicated allotment for low- and moderate-income households. Together, the project will total approximately 2.2 megawatts of installed capacity and will consist of roughly 4,400 photovoltaic panels. The combined systems are expected to avoid approximately 1,300 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions annually, comparable to eliminating nearly 3.3 million miles driven by an average gasoline-powered vehicle.
“The 4,400 solar panels in Chestertown’s new solar array will deliver affordable, clean and reliable electricity to the town and its residents, but their value goes far beyond,” said Maryland Energy Administration Director Kelly Speakes-Backman. “This project will show that solar energy can cut energy costs and emissions in all parts of the state. Marylanders have an understanding that we need more affordable, local energy generation, and this project illustrates a workable approach to delivering it.”
“Chestertown is setting a powerful example for local governments throughout Maryland demonstrating how communities can deploy solar to address both affordability and reliability for residents and local governments at the same time.” said Kathy Magruder, Executive Director for MCEC. “MCEC aided with this initiative from idea to implementation, including procurement and technical support. We can do the same for other towns and cities in the state.”
“Supporting Chestertown’s clean energy future is especially meaningful for us as a Maryland-based energy solutions company,” said Brad Dockser, CEO of GreenGen. “It reflects our mission to turn sustainability goals into practical, financeable projects with real impact. What sticks out is the dual benefit: emissions reductions alongside measurable cost savings, and we’re proud to support Chestertown, MCEC, and the State of Maryland in strengthening local budgets while reducing carbon emissions.”
The project’s municipally owned structure ensures that economic benefits flow directly to Chestertown residents and stakeholders, a fundamental difference from typical solar developments where third-party developers capture the majority of savings. Chestertown expects the combined financial benefits will be about $400,000 per year, reducing pressure on local tax rates while protecting the community against future energy price volatility. Participating households enrolled in the community solar program can expect annual electricity cost savings of 10-20% with expanded access to clean energy.
Structured as a long-term municipal asset, the project is expected to generate annual revenue for the town over its 25-year operational life. The Maryland Energy Administration provided a $1 million grant through its Local Government Energy Modification (L-GEM) program, while the Maryland Clean Energy Center (MCEC) assisted the town with low-cost financing using a Maryland Clean Energy Capital municipal bond, minimizing upfront costs while maximizing long-term community returns. Additionally, the project is supported by a $1.35 million federal investment tax credit.