Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development (DBED) Deputy Secretary Benjamin Wu, Howard County Executive Allan Kittleman and Howard County Economic Development Authority CEO Lawrence F. Twele joined with executives from Astrum Solar® to announce the company’s expansion and plans to add 240 new jobs over the next three years. A leading residential solar power provider and part of the Direct Energy® family of brands, Astrum Solar will triple its footprint at their Annapolis Junction headquarters and bring its total number of employees to 315 by the end of 2017.
“Astrum Solar is one of the fastest-growing companies in the country and we are thrilled they are expanding and adding jobs in Maryland,” said DBED Secretary Mike Gill. “We look forward to continuing to work closely with the company as they grow and create excellent job opportunities for Marylanders.”
Astrum Solar currently operates a 14,400 square-foot facility and plans to add 28,000 square feet as part of the expansion. The company plans to invest approximately $750,000 in upgrades, including leasehold improvements and equipment. To support the expansion and job creation goals, DBED is providing a $500,000 conditional loan through its Maryland Economic Development Assistance Authority and Fund (MEDAAF). Howard County Economic Development Authority is providing the company with a reimbursable workforce training grant up to $50,000.
“The expansion of Astrum Solar in Annapolis Junction is a perfect example of the type of economic development we strive for in Howard County,” said County Executive Kittleman. “This dynamic company offers sought-after employment opportunities and a desirable product. Its location in southeastern Howard County aligns with our priority of attracting innovative, successful businesses to the Rt. 1 corridor.”
“Diversifying our jobs base is a priority at the Howard County Economic Development Authority (HCEDA) and this expansion by Astrum Solar is a great example of the opportunities the energy sector holds,” said HCEDA’s Twele. “By working closely with our partners at the state level we can help grow businesses that are environmentally friendly and generate well-paying jobs.”
“Astrum Solar was born and raised in Maryland and since the beginning we have been committed to helping the state by creating jobs and helping Maryland residents benefit from the environmental and financial benefits of solar power,” said Cory Byzewski, Vice President of Astrum Solar. “Our partnership with DBED will allow us to serve even more Maryland residents and enhance our contribution to Maryland’s economy.”
Astrum Solar is headquartered in Howard County and has additional offices throughout the United States.
About DBED
The Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development stimulates private investment and creates jobs by attracting new businesses, encouraging the expansion and retention of existing companies, and providing workforce training and financial assistance to Maryland companies. The Department promotes the State's many economic advantages and markets local products and services at home and abroad to spur economic development and international investment, trade and tourism. Because they are major economic generators, the Department also supports the Arts, film production, sports and other special events. For more information, visit www.choosemaryland.org.
About Astrum Solar
Astrum Solar, a Direct Energy company, is a leading national full-service solar provider, serving homeowners and businesses in Arizona, California, Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Washington, DC. Astrum Solar's mission is to spread solar power to the rooftops of America and to ensure that its customers get the most out of their solar panels: the most energy generated, the most electricity savings, the most beneficial environmental impact, and the most joy each time they see a sunny day. www.astrumsolar.com