Renewable Energy Policy

In this report, we explore the historical trends, current status, and potential growth of Maryland’s solar photovoltaic (PV) market in terms of market share, use sectors, and current investments. Author, Drew Schiavone. Title: Solar Panels are an Increasingly Common Sight on Urban and Rural Properties Across Maryland (EB-455)

This report explores the historical trends, current status, and potential growth of Maryland’s solar photovoltaic (PV) market in terms of market share, use sectors, and current investments. The report also addresses the deployment capacity and market potential for residential, commercial, and utility-scale sectors within Maryland. Various solar initiatives, legislation, and other enabling policies currently impacting the solar market are also discussed. Author: Drew Schiavone; Title: Maryland’s Energy Market: The State Consumes More Energy than it Produces (FS-1188)

The purpose of this report is to provide farmers with important information regarding the development of on-farm solar PV systems. We explore the opportunities, motivations, and benefits of installing solar PV for your home, farm or business. Author: Drew Schiavone, Title: A Brief Guide to On-Farm Solar (FS-1187)

Knowing why and how to measure wood moisture in your firewood is key to reducing emissions and maximizing the amount of heat you get from your wood stove.This factsheet provides some examples of drying time for firewood and practical steps you can take to properly season firewood for your wood stove.

Manure is a great fertilizer for nutrient-poor soils. However, when transport costs limit utilization, alternative uses such as energy production become viable. In most cases, manure-to-energy practices produce nutrient-rich byproducts that can be used as a soil amendment. While nitrogen (N) may be lost, other nutrients like phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) are often more concentrated in these byproducts. Manure-to-energy practices include anaerobic digestion and thermal methods (pyrolysis, gasification). Composting and nutrient extraction also can alter manure and help concentrate nutrients for easier and less costly transport. The nutrient value of these byproducts is discussed.