Help Solve the Energy Puzzle

The Maryland General Assembly gaveled in the 2020 Legislative Session on January 8th with new leadership at the helm, and a number of newly appointed officials fitting into the mix.

• You should be aware of significant recent developments, which MCEC anticipates will serve as a foundation from which policy makers will assemble a vision for the Maryland energy economy:The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) issued a new Minimum Offer Price Rule (MOPR). This new federal rule places technology and resource specific price floors on offers into the energy capacity markets with advantageous pricing for fossil fuel generation. The ruling threatens environmental progress toward established Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) goals for Maryland and other states in the PJM transmission service territory, and has the potential to add costs to consumer power bills.

• In response to previous General Assembly mandates, results of several studies have been released with potential to influence policy decisions in the energy space:
  • The Maryland Department of Natural Resources Power Plant Research Program (PPRP) issued the Final Report Concerning the Maryland Renewable Portfolio Standard on December 26, 2019.
  • In October of 2019, the Maryland Department of the Environment released the 2019 Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act Draft Plan which will certainly inform the legislative process on energy matters in the coming session.

• Having examined the potential for the state to benefit from the advancement of innovative energy technology, the Maryland Energy Innovation Institute issued a report on the Present Status and Future Potential of Maryland’s Clean Energy Innovation System, with certain policy recommendations.

• And, on December 31, 2019, the Governors Task Force on Renewable Energy & Solar Siting issued an interim report including specific related recommendations.

• Proposed legislation is being circulated by advocates to address Consumer Protection for Energy Choice as well as a Community Choice Energy bill, which will allow local governments to purchase energy on behalf of residents to achieve more renewable energy at lower rates for customers.

It is more important than ever that energy sector stakeholders pay attention as the pieces come together to make up the policy puzzle this session! MCEC wants you to be informed and aware of how you can participate in the discussion.

As the session unfolds, subscribe to receive MCEC POLICY WATCH Reports each week. We also invite you to participate in our LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE Calls, scheduled weekly on Fridays at 2:00 PM, to review legislation as it is introduced and makes its way through the process. If you would like to participate, please contact Pamela Powers at 301-314-6065.

Attend the MCEC Legislative Reception on Thursday, February 5, from 11 AM to 2 PM in Annapolis. This networking forum with provide you with the opportunity to meet with legislators, key policy makers, and industry leaders. Bring your solution to the table. Advance registration required by January 29. Maryland legislators, or a staff representative, can attend as our guest. RSVP to MCEC at 301-314-6061.

The MCEC team is here to help you get involved as we work to complete the puzzle this session.