Maryland’s clean energy future is a priority, but new legislation—HB 1036/SB 931—raises concerns about local oversight, public safety, and fairness to taxpayers.
While counties are in support of renewable energy this bill, as drafted, sidelines local government, gets in key land use decisions, reducing public input and creating uncertainty for communities.
Last week, MACo and county leaders testified before the General Assembly, urging a balanced approach that ensures Maryland’s clean energy goals are met without sacrificing local control. Counties stand ready to be partners in this endeavor. However, the process must include collaboration, transparency, and public safety considerations.
Here’s what county leaders had to say about the bill and why amendments are needed.
“Maryland counties have long supported clean energy initiatives, but these bills, as written, ignore critical concerns, public safety, local oversight, and fairness to taxpayers.” – Queen Anne’s County Commissioner Jack Wilson, President of MACo
— MD Assoc of Counties (@MDCounties) March 3, 2025
“MACo has been working with both the chairs as well as other stakeholders on a set of amendments that are forthcoming, and we eagerly await to see a reprint…” – @DomButchko_MACo pic.twitter.com/JySD0BtFga
— MD Assoc of Counties (@MDCounties) March 3, 2025
“Our county has approved almost 200 acres of solar, which equates to 70 megawatts of energy that wattage contributes to about 13% of the renewable energy portfolio goal that is set for the state…our commitment to renewable energy is true, and our commitment to partnership is… pic.twitter.com/hpmtsw9CW2
— MD Assoc of Counties (@MDCounties) March 3, 2025
“This bill limits the public input by bypassing local zoning, which was developed with a robust public participation process. It also undermines our land use, equity, and fiscal priorities…” Director of the Department of the Environment, @PrinceGeorgesMD Adriana Caldarelli pic.twitter.com/76CgDS6GRS
— MD Assoc of Counties (@MDCounties) March 3, 2025
📢 Bottom line: Maryland’s #CleanEnergy future must be balanced. ⚖️ We support renewable energy, but HB 1036/SB 931 needs to do more to protect communities, taxpayers, and local input. 🌱🏛️
MACo has worked with sponsors and stakeholders on the amendments. https://t.co/kfkrgrKydB…— MD Assoc of Counties (@MDCounties) March 3, 2025
