Installing Large-Scale Solar through a Power Purchase Agreement in Howard County, MD
An ICLEI USA case study
This case study of Howard County, MD’s Solar Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) highlights the process and benefits of implementing a PPA for the development of large-scale solar projects. This PPA enabled Howard County and its partners to build 24 MW of rooftop, canopy, and ground-mounted solar projects. These projects now supply 50% of the government’s operational electricity consumption. This long-term financing model enabled Howard County to purchase renewable energy over 25 years at a fixed per-kWh rate, with no upfront cost to the County. The PPA resulted in operational cost savings, cleaner air, lower emissions and increased energy resilience for the County and its residents.
This case study was published by ICLEI USA in September 2026 through the Municipal Investment Fund.
This case study includes...
An overview of PPA terms and program design
Unique features of Howard County's PPA, such as the inclusion of EV charging stations and pollinator habitats
Howard County's Request for Proposals
...and more!
