At the MACo Summer Conference, attendees heard how upcoming energy changes could impact local planning, infrastructure, and economic development.
Maryland has long aimed to lead in the renewable energy transition, with state policymakers pushing bold goals on clean energy, electrification, and efficiency. Over the past decade, legislative and executive actions have driven progress—but rising regional energy demands and shifting federal policies are creating new challenges.
Senator Mary Beth Carozza led the conversation and moderated an informative Q&A at the Powering Maryland: What’s Next for the State’s Energy Future? general session at the MACo Summer Conference
Panel speakers included:
- Kumar Barve, Commissioner, Public Service Commission
- Paul Pinsky, Director, Maryland Energy Administration
- Mark Ritacco, Chief Government Affairs Officer, NACo
- Michael Bartoszek, Senior Account Executive, TotalEnergies
- Jason M. Stanek, Executive Director of Governmental Services, PJM Interconnection
Mark Ritacco kicked off the conversation by discussing changes at the federal level and recent legislation. New federal budget legislation will have a major fiscal impact. Permitting reform will likely be a major topic during the fall.
Jason M. Stanek outlined the role of PJM, including managing the increasingly stressed transmission grid. The entire PJM region could have energy shortages by the summer of ‘26, with the situation only projected to get worse.
Kumar Barve gave an update on both the recent 2025 state energy legislation and the limited power outage in the BGE service territory.
Paul Pinsky discussed LGEM – a $64M one time grant program for counties and municipalities. This requires minimum matching funds, with the state paying for 95% of project costs.
Michael Bartoszek gave a developer’s perspective. Higher rates mean companies will favour the Maryland market for further investment. In addition to market dynamics, tools like SRECs & net-metering encourage additional investment in Maryland.
⚡ LIVE: Powering Maryland kicks off!
From bold clean energy goals to rising regional demand, MD’s energy future is at a crossroads. Analysts & experts break down 2025 session outcomes and what they mean for local planning, infrastructure & growth. #MDEnergy #MACoCon #MDcounties pic.twitter.com/2h0uBLIkym
— Dominic J. Butchko (@DomButchko_MACo) August 14, 2025
The session was on August 14th at the Roland Powell Convention Center in Ocean City, Maryland.
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