Maryland Energy Innovation Institute (MEI2)

Established in 2017 by the Maryland General Assembly, the Maryland Energy Innovation Institute (MEI²) was founded to support the development of clean-energy technology innovations from companies and universities across Maryland, thereby boosting economic growth and jobs in the state’s clean-energy sector.

The mission of MEI² is to bring together business, industry, and academic leaders to take advantage of opportunities in those spaces with in-state researchers and entrepreneurs leading the way. 

The institute supports entrepreneurial engineers and scientists working on technologies poised to revolutionize the energy industry. From groundbreaking energy research, to seed grants that enable demonstration of the technology in working prototypes, to accelerator programs that prepare fledgling companies for the crucible of the open market, MEI² offers a range of clean energy business development opportunities.

MEI² provides a platform to catalyze basic research into new technology while stimulating economic growth and improving millions of lives across the state of Maryland. The Institute brings together science, industry, government and economic leaders to develop solutions to global and local energy problems and facilitate the transfer of technology and resources to the public in addition to transitioning the research into marketable products and services through locally based entrepreneurial ventures.

Engineering Market Momentum: 

Below are three examples of clean-energy inventions well on their way to becoming market-ready products:

• Stronger-than-steel wood that replaces metal in cars and planes and slashes steel production emissions. 
• Lightweight, long-lasting, and backpack-sized non-flammable battery packs that soldiers and rescue workers carry with them wherever they go. 
• A compact, cordless air-conditioning robot that follows you on a muggy summer day, keeping you comfortable while drastically reducing the cost and environmental impact of cooling huge office or warehouse spaces.

MEI² is Seeding Economic Impact by:

• Advancing the UMD Research Enterprise: By increasing the visibility and impact of UMD energy and environmental research.
• Supporting State of Maryland Agencies: Provide a centralized institute for the Maryland Energy Administration (MEA), Department of Commerce, Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Maryland Public Service Commission and the Maryland Governor's needs with respect to specific energy expertise, including serving on governmental committees and providing input to reports.
• Increasing Economic Growth in Maryland: Accelerate Maryland's energy innovation ecosystem creating new companies and jobs, as well as assisting economic development officials in attracting companies to Maryland.