Maryland State Delegate Ryan Nawrocki is pushing for stronger federal and state regulations on electricity transmission projects, citing public outcry over several proposed power line projects in the state. Del. Nawrocki believes that Maryland is being used as a “transmission corridor” for neighboring states, particularly Virginia, and that the state’s energy policy is flawed. He argues that the proposed power line projects, including the Maryland Piedmont Reliability Project (MPRP), do not benefit Maryland and will harm the state’s agricultural land and communities.
Recently, Governor Wes Moore announced that Maryland would join a multi-state compact aimed at reducing rules and barriers for new offshore wind generation and power line infrastructure. However, Del. Nawrocki is concerned that this move will lead to a decrease in utility regulations, rather than increased oversight. He believes that the state should prioritize public benefits over the profits of energy companies and has introduced legislation to require utilities to do so.
The MPRP, in particular, has been met with opposition from local residents and lawmakers, who argue that it will bring no benefits to Maryland and will instead serve to transmit power from Pennsylvania to Virginia. Del. Nawrocki has also expressed concerns about the closure of the Brandon Shores and H.A. Wagner Power Plants in Anne Arundel County, which he believes will lead to a loss of jobs and tax revenue for the state.
In response to Governor Moore’s announcement, Del. Nawrocki has called for a pause on the MPRP and other power line projects until the state can reassess its energy policy and prioritize the needs of Maryland residents. He believes that federal intervention may be necessary to address the issue and has urged residents to demand a new direction from the governor and legislative leaders.
The governor’s office has responded by stating that the state must be “smart about where and how we invest in our electric infrastructure” and that the process should be transparent and include public input. However, Del. Nawrocki remains skeptical, arguing that the state’s energy policy is flawed and that the proposed power line projects will harm Maryland’s communities and environment. The issue is likely to continue to be a point of contention in the state, with Del. Nawrocki and other lawmakers pushing for stronger regulations and greater oversight of the energy industry.