A new plan aimed at reducing energy costs and strengthening the state’s power supply was unveiled by Maryland Governor Wes Moore alongside legislative leaders in the Maryland General Assembly during a Friday press conference at the State House in Annapolis.
Moore shared personal stories about rising energy prices from residents, including challenges faced by his own mother.
“For every Marylander, we know every single month an envelope arrives in the mail,” Moore said. “When they open it, it’s not just a utility bill. Unfortunately for some Marylanders, it’s a demonstration of a completely broken system. Our people are stuck in a system that is actively working against them.”
Lawmakers said constituents report bills rising from about $100 to as much as $500 a month. Some families have lowered their thermostats to around 62 degrees during winter to manage costs, according to reports by elected officials.
Joseline Peña‑Melnyk, speaker of the Maryland House of Delegates, said lawmakers consulted with multiple stakeholders while drafting the Utility RELIEF Act.
“We have had around 20 meetings with a lot of the utility companies in my office,” Peña‑Melnyk said. “We have met with environmental groups and tried to compromise, and what you see here is that bill.”
Supporters said the Utility RELIEF Act will provide at least $150 in annual savings for ratepayers, strengthen energy reliability, encourage new power generation, and hold utilities and data centers accountable for their energy usage.
Republicans criticized the proposal, saying it does not offer immediate relief and lacks bipartisan support.
Bill Ferguson, president of the Maryland State Senate said the Public Service Commission plays a key role in regulating rates. “We need to provide the guidance and policy tools to help lower costs for Marylanders,” Ferguson said to MCM News.
Debate over the measure is expected to continue as the legislative session moves forward.
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