Welcome to Runway Community Solar!

Powering Maryland Communities with Clean, Local Energy

Alder Energy developed, built, and now owns and operates the 779.9 kW Runway Community Solar project in Westminster, Maryland. Completed in 2025 in partnership with subscriber organization Neighborhood Sun, this rooftop system will generate approximately 950,556 kWh of clean electricity annually. Connected to the Baltimore Gas & Electric distribution grid, the community solar project benefits ~115 subscribing households by providing renewable energy at a discounted rate. 

The Maryland Energy Administration, through the Community Solar LMI-PPA Grant Program, awarded funding to Alder Energy for the Runway Community Solar project. As part of this grant commitment, for the system’s lifespan at least 51% of all solar energy produced shall be subscribed to Marylanders who experience low to moderate income (LMI). Each year, the project will prevent an estimated 611 metric tons of CO₂ emissions, making a lasting impact on Maryland’s clean energy future. See the dashboard below for live energy production and environmental benefits data from the Runway Solar site.

Our Community Solar Partners

Frequently Asked Questions

Community solar is a great idea for many people because it allows you to benefit from renewable energy without having to install solar panels on your property. By joining a community solar project, you can lower your electric bill by 5-15%, depending on the amount of electricity generated by the solar farm. This is an easy way to support clean energy in your local community and improve energy efficiency without any upfront costs or maintenance.

While community solar has many benefits, there are some disadvantages to consider. First, not all states or regions offer community solar projects, so availability can be limited. Additionally, the savings on your electric bill may vary depending on the amount of energy produced by the solar farm and other factors, like changes in the utility grid or electric utility policies. Some people also prefer to own their own solar array so they can control the energy production and maximize their savings, which isn’t possible with a community solar system.

A community solar system is a shared solar array where multiple people or businesses can subscribe to a portion of the electricity it generates. Unlike traditional solar panels that are installed on your roof, a community solar project is typically located off-site. The electricity generated by the solar farm is fed into the utility grid, and subscribers receive credits on their utility account for the energy their share produces. This setup allows people who can’t install solar panels on their property to still benefit from renewable energy.

The best states for community solar are those that have supportive policies and incentives for renewable energy projects. States like New York, Massachusetts, Minnesota, and Colorado are leaders in community solar projects because they have favorable regulations that encourage the development of these systems. These states make it easier for people to join local solar farms and benefit from clean energy, which in turn helps improve energy efficiency across the region.

Yes, joining a solar farm is often worth it, especially if you want to lower your electric bill and support renewable energy without installing solar panels on your own property. With community solar, you can enjoy the benefits of clean energy, such as reduced carbon emissions and increased energy efficiency, while also saving money. The electricity you receive is credited to your utility account, which can lead to significant savings over time. Plus, you’re contributing to the growth of renewable energy projects in your local community.

Now Is the Time to Get into Solar Energy

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