At the MACo Winter Conference, counties discussed the most pressing energy issues set to be debated in Annapolis.
The 2025 legislative session is gearing up to be the “Session of Energy.” As the General Assembly reconvenes, legislators’ biggest issue is how to grow Maryland’s domestic energy production while weaning the state off fossil fuels. To date, Maryland has lagged behind in meeting its ambitious renewable energy generation targets while also pushing policies that increase demand. Tying all this together are lingering questions around preserving ecosystems, agriculture, and encouraging affordable housing development. 2025 is shaping up to be an energetic year for sure.
The Honorable MC Keegan-Ayer, Council Member, Frederick County, led the conversation and moderated an informative Q&A at the Powering Maryland: A Roundtable on the State’s Energy Landscape general session at the 2024 MACo Winter Conference.
STANDING ROOM ONLY! #MDcounties are energized to solve Maryland’s energy challenges! pic.twitter.com/GvJm4ONptY
— Dominic J. Butchko (@DomButchko_MACo) December 11, 2024
Panel Speakers included:
- Mike Richard, Commissioner Public Service Commission
- Paul Pinsky, Director, Maryland Energy Administration
- Amy Moredock, Planning Director, Queen Anne’s County
- Mike Wilkins, Director, Development Review and Planning, Frederick County
Director Paul Pinsky outlined the need for more energy generation and transmission infrastructure. He noted that approximately less than 2 percent of the state’s agricultural land would be needed to meet the General Assembly’s solar goals.
Amy Moredock & Mike Wilkins, highlighted the challenges and competing pressures county face as the state continues to enact increasingly ambitious and competing priorities. Queen Anne’s has tried to overcome this by establishing policies to focus development closer to energy infrastructure while disincentivizing development farther away.
Commissioner Mike Richard outlines that energy rates are set to increase on average $10-$18 per month, with some consumers set for larger increases. Maryland has three options with energy: become more efficient, import more, or produce more.
More about MACo’s Winter Conference:
