MD SB931

Creates a new "Distributed Generation Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity" (DGCPCN) as a streamlined approval pathway for community solar systems between 2-5 megawatts located outside municipal corporations, with the Power Plant Research Program required to develop standard siting and design requirements by July 1, 2026, and Commission regulations by July 1, 2027

Establishes mandatory siting requirements for solar generating stations over 1 megawatt, including 150-foot setbacks from residential dwellings, 100-foot setbacks from property lines, landscape buffers up to 35 feet wide with four-season screening, and decommissioning bonds at 125% of estimated future costs

Prohibits local jurisdictions from banning solar energy generating stations or denying compliant site development plans, while restricting ground-mounted solar over 5 megawatts from Tier 1/2 growth areas, medium/high density residential zones, and limiting solar in priority preservation areas to 5% of total acreage

Requires the Maryland Department of Labor to develop a special solar contractor license for residential rooftop installation, and mandates sellers/lessors provide 5-year warranties on installation and components with $1,000 fines per violation

Directs the Public Service Commission to study procurement models including power purchase agreements and utility-supplier partnerships for generation projects adding 100+ megawatts to state supply, with expedited 180-day approval timelines, and requires a report by December 1, 2026