(a)    (1)    In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.

(2)    “Nitrogen removal technology” has the meaning stated in § 9–1108 of this subtitle.

(3)    “On–site sewage disposal system” has the meaning stated in § 9–1108 of this subtitle.

(4)    “Vendor” means a person that sells, offers for sale, or distributes on–site sewage disposal systems that utilize nitrogen removal technology.

(b)    (1)    In accordance with subsection (c) of this section, the Department shall evaluate and rank all best available nitrogen removal technologies for on–site sewage disposal systems to advise local governments and residents of the State of approved technologies that qualify for funding under § 9–1605.2(h)(2) of this title.

(2)    The Department shall:

(i)    Make available the evaluation and ranking of all best available nitrogen removal technologies required under this section on the Department’s Web site; and

(ii)    Provide the evaluation and ranking of all best available nitrogen removal technologies to a county, municipality, or resident of the State in any correspondence relating to approved technologies that qualify for funding under § 9–1605.2(h)(2) of this title.

(c)    The Department shall evaluate and rank all best available nitrogen removal technologies for on–site sewage disposal systems based on:

(1)    The total amount of nitrogen reduction the technology can achieve;

(2)    The total cost of the technology, including the estimated annual cost of operation and maintenance, including electricity costs;

(3)    The cost per pound of the nitrogen reduction; and

(4)    Any other information the Department determines is necessary.

(d)    Beginning June 1, 2011, and every 2 years thereafter, the Department shall request information from vendors necessary to carry out the requirements of this section.