Hale Calls for Faster Action on Maryland Energy Prices

Republican gubernatorial candidate criticizes Gov. Moore's policies, proposes reopening retired power plants.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 10:19pm

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A vibrant, abstract painting depicting an electrical power substation in overlapping, fractured geometric shapes and waves of blue, green, and orange, conveying the urgency and complexity of Maryland's energy challenges.Hale's call for faster action on energy prices exposes the political divide over Maryland's path forward.Baltimore Today

Republican gubernatorial candidate Ed Hale spoke in Middle River, Maryland, criticizing Gov. Wes Moore's policies for contributing to higher energy costs in the state. Hale said the state can't wait months to address the issue and proposed reopening retired power plants, including the Exelon facility in Baltimore that was closed in 2019 after over a century of operation.

Why it matters

Energy prices have been a major concern for Maryland residents, with costs rising significantly in recent years. Hale's comments highlight the political divide over how to address the issue, with the Republican challenger proposing more aggressive action than the current Democratic administration.

The details

Hale spoke at Geresbeck's Food Market in Middle River, where he said policies under Gov. Moore have led to higher energy costs. Hale specifically mentioned the Exelon power plant in Baltimore that was retired in 2019 after 114 years of operation, suggesting it could be recommissioned to help address the state's energy needs.

  • Hale spoke on Tuesday, April 7, 2026.
  • The Maryland gubernatorial election is scheduled for November 2026.

The players

Ed Hale

The Republican candidate for governor of Maryland.

Wes Moore

The current Democratic governor of Maryland.

Exelon

The energy company that operated a power plant in Baltimore that was retired in 2019 after over a century of operation.

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What they’re saying

“I don't think we have seven or eight months to lose. The damage has been done by him closing up these power plants.”

— Ed Hale, Republican gubernatorial candidate

“Why don't we open that? That would be one of the ones that would be recommissioned to open right there. It's right there next to 95. You've seen it. Why can't we do that one?”

— Ed Hale, Republican gubernatorial candidate

What’s next

The Maryland gubernatorial election is scheduled for November 2026, where voters will have the opportunity to choose between Hale's proposals and the incumbent governor's policies.

The takeaway

Hale's comments highlight the political debate over how to address rising energy costs in Maryland, with the Republican challenger proposing more immediate action, including reopening retired power plants, in contrast to the current Democratic administration's approach.