BGE and the Exelon Foundation Announce $250,000 Grant for Civic Works’ Baltimore Shines Solar Initiative

BALTIMORE (December 15, 2025) - BGE and the Exelon Foundation have granted $250,000 to Civic Works' Baltimore Shines solar initiative to support solar installations for 30 homes in Baltimore.

According to Civic Works, homeowners will receive free rooftop solar installations, adding clean energy to the grid and generating more than 182,000 kWh of clean electricity per year. The installations will cut approximately 277,635 pounds of CO₂ emissions annually. As part of the program, each home will receive roof and electrical upgrades to ensure solar readiness, backed by a 20-year maintenance plan to guarantee long-term reliability and impact, advancing environmental justice and energy equity. The installations will reduce reliance on non-renewable energy sources while advancing Maryland's clean energy goals.

No-cost rooftop solar systems for 30 low-and moderate-income households will help reduce monthly energy costs, improve housing infrastructure, and expand access to clean, renewable power in underserved Baltimore neighborhoods.

"BGE is committed to investing in solutions that make energy more affordable and help our customers manage their bills. Baltimore Shines is making a real difference by helping families lower their energy costs while expanding access to clean, renewable power," said Tamla Olivier, president and CEO of BGE. "Today's completion of the 50th solar installation brings affordable energy where it is needed most. Thank you to Civic Works for helping us build a more equitable, sustainable Baltimore."

To help celebrate today's announcement, Civic Works' solar team completed a solar installation as part of its on-the-job training program in Baltimore's Gwynn Oak community. In preparation for installation, Civic Works coordinates essential roof and electrical upgrades, ensuring homes are structurally ready to support solar technology. The solar installations can help customers save money on their electric bill while also increasing the value of their home. Today's installation marked the 50^th solar installation for Baltimore Shines.

"We are thrilled to celebrate Civic Works' 50^th Baltimore Shines solar installation, a milestone that reflects the growing impact of this initiative," said Eli Allen, senior program director of Civic Works. "We are also deeply appreciative of this new grant from BGE and the Exelon Foundation, which will expand access to clean energy and allow us to provide no-cost solar installations to additional limited- and moderate-income households. Together, we are reducing monthly expenses for families and strengthening resilience across Baltimore neighborhoods."

Baltimore Shines is a collaborative program between the Baltimore City Department of Housing and Community Development and Civic Works. Together, they provide free rooftop solar photovoltaic installations for limited-and moderate-income Baltimore City residents and create family-sustaining careers through job training and job placement opportunities.

This solar initiative is also supported by the Maryland Energy Administration and the Mayor's Office of Recovery Programs. Click here to learn more about the Baltimore Shines program and how to apply.