Maryland Lawmakers Consider 'Affordable Energy Act' to Boost Renewable Power

The legislation aims to address rising electricity demand by allowing utilities to build and own clean energy generation.

Mar. 10, 2026 at 9:01pm

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Maryland lawmakers are set to consider the 'Affordable Energy Act', a bill that would allow the state's regulated electric utilities to build and own clean and renewable power generation. The legislation aims to address the rising electricity demand in Maryland and is expected to help alleviate electricity shortages and reduce power bills for families.

Why it matters

As Maryland's energy needs continue to grow, this bill represents an effort to expand the state's renewable energy infrastructure and give utilities a greater role in developing clean power sources. This could help improve grid reliability and affordability for consumers, while also advancing the state's clean energy goals.

The details

The 'Affordable Energy Act' would require Maryland's Public Service Commission to develop and submit resource adequacy plans if certain conditions are met. This would enable the state's regulated electric utilities to build and own renewable power generation, rather than relying solely on independent power producers. Supporters of the bill say it has broad backing from various stakeholders, including contractors, labor unions, and other utilities.

  • The house bill will be considered by lawmakers in Annapolis on Tuesday, March 10, 2026.

The players

Valencia McClure

A senior vice president at Exelon, a major energy company that has submitted letters in support of the bill.

Maryland Public Service Commission

The state regulatory agency that would be responsible for developing and submitting resource adequacy plans under the proposed legislation.

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What they’re saying

“We have contractors, we have LIUNA. So a number of stakeholders that are really coming in person to testify, in addition to those that have written letters of support, which other utilities have also submitted letters in addition to chambers, county executives.”

— Valencia McClure, Senior Vice President, Exelon (C4 and Bryan Nehman show)

What’s next

The Maryland Public Service Commission will be tasked with developing and submitting resource adequacy plans if the 'Affordable Energy Act' is passed.

The takeaway

This legislation represents an effort by Maryland to expand its renewable energy infrastructure and give utilities a greater role in developing clean power sources, which could help improve grid reliability and affordability for consumers while advancing the state's clean energy goals.