MarylandHB 15322026 Regular SessionHouseWALLET

Utility RELIEF (Reducing Energy Load Inflation for Everyday Families) Act

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

126 provisions identified: 73 benefits, 7 costs, 46 mixed.

Grants for home and business batteries

Energy storage grants are available up to 30% of installed costs. Homes can get up to $5,000; businesses can get up to $150,000. The law adds $2 million to this grant program. These caps do not apply to certain upfront rebates under §7‑1006.

Grants to install home solar

Homeowners can get a one‑time grant for rooftop solar. If your income is at or below 150% of the state median, you get $750 per kilowatt, up to $7,500. The state energy fund supports customer‑sited solar grants. The state may also prioritize incentives for low‑ and moderate‑income customers when money is available.

Heat pump funding for low‑income homes

The state moves $72.65 million to expand heat pump installations and replacements for low‑ and moderate‑income households. The Maryland Energy Administration runs this Residential Energy Equity Program funding.

More electric bill help for low‑income households

The state runs a universal service program for customers at or below 200% of the federal poverty level. It provides bill help, low‑income weatherization, and arrearage retirement (not if received in the past 5 fiscal years). A continuing fund holds program dollars, and unspent aid can pay out in the first 6 months of the next year (the Commission may extend 6 more months). Leftover funds are credited back by customer class, and legacy surpluses can fund aid and weatherization. Customers in community choice programs keep access to all bill and arrearage aid. The state energy fund adds targeted help for low‑ and moderate‑income households. If your application is missing documents, you get at least 3 months to fix it and shutoff cannot start. Beginning FY2028, the Governor must budget any allowance‑sale balances above set thresholds: $50 million for energy assistance; $5 million combined for low/moderate‑income and efficiency; $5 million for renewables; and $3 million for administration.

More energy help for low‑income homes

The Office of Home Energy Programs now runs the state electric bill help program and authorizes benefits. It can set minimum and maximum benefit amounts, coordinate with other energy help, and use contractors. At least 50% of allowance sale money funds electricity and fuel help. At least 20% funds efficiency programs, with at least half of that 20% aimed at low‑ and moderate‑income homes, including no‑cost services. The housing department runs low‑income weatherization. The program can waive income limits case by case, and help received in 2020–2021 does not count against future arrearage‑retirement limits. The office may send bill assistance to utilities monthly. Arrearage‑prevention efforts must seek private rooftop‑solar investment and hire unemployed or underemployed local residents for solar installation.

Bill protections on new nuclear projects

The Commission may approve a new nuclear project only if it connects to the state grid and meets rate‑impact limits. The limits protect average residential customers using 12,000 kWh per year and nonresidential customers from large bill increases. The project’s long‑term price cannot exceed an amount the Commission sets. Before operation, any approved total cost increase is capped at 15% of the original project cost.

Clean energy fund split from 2028

Beginning in fiscal year 2028, at least 20% of fund proceeds go to clean energy programs. Of that money, at least 45% goes to building clean energy and efficiency, 30% to transportation programs, 15% to electric system resiliency, and 5% to customer rebates for on‑site renewables. In some small‑surcharge cases, an extra 5% may go to power plant research.

Energy fund backs efficiency and clean power

The state energy fund pays for energy efficiency, renewable and clean energy, demand response, and climate programs. It targets extra help to low‑ and moderate‑income households. The state must measure and verify energy savings. Programs can include incentives to cut use when prices are high or reliability is at risk.

New surcharges and cost recovery on bills

Electric bills include a per‑kilowatt‑hour surcharge set by the Commission. By January 1, 2028, the Commission allows full current recovery of program costs through a bill line. Utilities may include certain non‑behind‑the‑meter program costs in base rates if approved. The Commission reviews utility plans using set cost‑effectiveness tests and other factors.

How Maryland funds electric bill help

Maryland funds electric bill help with a charge on all customers. Each year $37 million is collected: $27.4 million from business customers and $9.6 million from homes. The charge is not per kilowatt-hour, and the Commission splits it across customer classes and parts of the bill. Unspent bill aid can pay eligible applications for 6 months into the next fiscal year (with one 6‑month extension), then any leftover is returned as bill credits by class. Utilities must send a yearly notice of these charges and benefits, the Commission reports each year on needs and impacts, and the program is audited.

Nuclear credit program and bill charges

The Commission creates a zero‑emission nuclear credit program with a per‑megawatt‑hour cap. Utilities may recover costs with a nonbypassable surcharge. The price updates every two years, and an escrow account handles payments. Any over‑ or under‑collections are distributed or refunded to distribution customers.

Two-year funding for renewable auctions

For fiscal years 2027 and 2028, up to $100 million each year from compliance fees can fund awards for renewable power projects. The Fund can run bids and pay program and administrative costs. The Maryland Energy Administration sets delivery deadlines and milestones, can extend them for verified interconnection or permitting delays, and must recapture funds for fraud, overpayment, or missed targets.

Clearer utility rate info and rebates

Beginning January 1, 2028, the Commission publishes a plain‑language annual rate report for each utility, and each utility must post it and send every customer a link by March 1. Every bill and automatic payment email must include a short statement about the Public Service Commission and how to take part. If a case may raise residential distribution costs by over 3%, the utility must notify residential customers with links on bills or payment emails. Utilities must also tell customers about available federal and State rebates and tax credits for efficiency, non‑fossil appliances, breaker upgrades, and portable heating and cooling. Utilities must provide required customer notices in the situations set by the law.

Faster, cheaper permits for rooftop solar

Local review of software‑filed residential solar permits is limited to health and safety checks. Beginning August 1, 2027, permits issued by the software for rooftop systems under 30 kW cannot cost more than $500, plus any third‑party payment processing charge.

Faster, simpler permits for home solar

Beginning August 1, 2027, counties and towns must use statewide software to accept and approve permits for home solar, storage, and panel upgrades. If you apply using the software, reviews are limited to health and safety, inspections average 5 business days, and manual reviews finish in 5 business days. Electric companies must handle meter disconnects/reconnects for interconnection within 5 business days after a proper request. The Attorney General can enforce local compliance. The law also allows certain portable solar systems under set conditions.

Limits on utility costs passed through

A utility cannot charge customers for any supervisor pay above 110% of the Public Service Commission Chair’s maximum annual salary. Each utility’s board must also adopt a policy that caps what kinds of expenses it will try to recover from customers, including entertainment, renovations, aviation and other transport services, staff development, and performance incentives. The Commission can review that policy in rate cases.

More money for home solar rebates

Beginning in fiscal year 2028, $9 million each year funds grants or rebates for customers who install on‑site renewable systems. Starting in fiscal year 2025, at least 20% of compliance fee money also supports new customer‑sited solar, and up to 10% may cover admin costs. Older unused money is spent first, and funds unused after three fiscal years are moved to other allowed uses. The law does not set the grant amount per household.

Net metering transition for community solar

Standard net metering stays open first‑come, first‑served until the earlier of 3,000 MW statewide or July 1, 2027. If 3,000 MW is not met, community solar placed in service after July 1, 2027 can still qualify only if it had a queue position and paid interconnection fees by January 1, 2027 and is in service by July 1, 2029, within service‑territory limits tied to 2026 sales.

Stronger rules for utility rates

Your investor‑owned utility must notify you by bill insert or email before it starts a case that could change rates. The Commission may use alternative ways to set prices and revenues, but only after a hearing and only if it protects consumers and service quality; it cannot use a forecast test year in base rate cases. Utilities cannot charge customers for industry trade association dues or for costs tied to private planes.

Stronger utility bill notices and cost limits

Utilities must clearly tell customers when a surcharge repays unpaid program costs dating back to 2008 and how long that lasts. Utilities and the Department report progress every six months, and customers get yearly notices of charges and benefits; the Commission reports by May 1 each year. Utility boards must adopt policies that cap recoverable costs for items like events, travel, and renovations. The Commission must ensure customers served by community choice aggregators can still get any bill credits or arrearage help they qualify for.

Tighter rules on multi-year utility rates

The law limits how utilities use multi‑year rate plans. A company that files a multi‑year plan cannot later file to add charges through a reconciliation, unless it filed that reconciliation by January 1, 2025. The Commission may only approve a plan that shows customer benefits and does not include reconciliation or cost‑sharing that adds extra charges above the approved revenue. For plans approved after January 1, 2026, the Commission may require refunds if the company collects more than its approved revenue requirement.

Tighter rules on residential power contracts

Residential electricity suppliers face new limits. Prices (not green power) cannot be more than 110% of the utility’s standard offer rate when you sign. Most variable rates are banned, except time‑of‑use, twice‑yearly seasonal changes, or plans that never exceed the utility rate. Contracts cannot last longer than 36 months. Auto‑renewal needs a 90‑day and a 30‑day advance notice, and green power plans cannot auto‑renew. Suppliers cannot pay sales commissions for enrolling you.

2027 electric bill refunds and relief

Residential electric customers get bill credits or refunds in 2027. The law sends $100 million to electric companies for equal monthly credits in 2027. The state energy fund also offsets residential rates and surcharges, including help for submetered apartments when feasible. The Governor may move money to agencies so those refunds or credits reach customers.

2027 monthly energy bill refunds

For calendar year 2027, $100 million funds monthly bill credits or refunds for residential electric customers. Credits are based on your consumption of supply subject to the renewable portfolio standard and must appear as “legislative energy relief refund.” Utilities must pass through all funds and cannot keep overhead. If master‑meter data is unclear, the Commission may limit refunds to customers on residential tariffs and must report its reasons by December 1, 2026.

Caps and rules for program surcharge

The universal service charge cannot be billed per kWh. The Commission must decide how to split it across generation, transmission, and distribution. Your monthly surcharge per account is capped at the smaller of $0.00015 per kWh or $1,000, and it ends after June 30, 2030. The existing recovery cap applies when paying for the statewide universal service program, which can limit costs passed on to customers.

Community solar program and deadline relief

The state runs a permanent community solar program. The Commission can extend project deadlines when delays are from force majeure, government holdups, utility noncompliance, or when a system is built and only waiting for permission to operate. This helps more projects reach the finish line and lets more households subscribe.

Limited‑income utility rate programs and credits

Utilities must adopt a Commission‑approved limited‑income program. You qualify if your income is at or below 175% of the federal poverty level, or 200% if you are 67 or older. You may still get other state or private energy aid while enrolled. In FY2027, the state energy fund offsets costs tied to this program, including $38 million for customer credits or refunds.

Loans and grants for electrification projects

The state fund provides loans and grants to electrify buildings, connect to electrified district energy, and support transportation electrification. This lowers up‑front costs for eligible home and business projects.

Net metering protections during transition

Systems under net metering or qualifying on July 1, 2027 stay eligible until they are decommissioned, repowered, put under a new interconnection agreement, or are upgraded to increase output. If the 3,000 MW cap is not reached, some community solar projects placed in service after July 1, 2027 can still get net metering if they held a queue spot and paid at least 50% of estimated interconnection fees by July 1, 2027, go in service by July 1, 2030, and the utility cap is not met.

One-time bill credits and master-meters

The law sets up a $100 million pool for one‑time bill refunds. The Commission can direct grants to commercial master‑meter accounts so each residential unit gets a pro rata credit. Building owners must pass credits to each unit, may keep up to 3% for admin costs, and must return funds received in error. If master‑meter accounts cannot be identified with enough certainty or it is not in the public interest, the Commission may direct credits only to customers on residential tariffs and must explain that decision by December 1, 2026.

One‑time 2027 bill refunds

In 2027, electric companies receive state grants and must credit all residential customers. The credit shows on your bill as a “legislative energy relief refund.” Utilities cannot keep any of this money. The Public Service Commission oversees these refunds.

Pilot payments for home energy systems

Utilities must run pilots or temporary tariffs that pay owners and aggregators of local energy systems for supporting the distribution grid. The Maryland Energy Administration may offer upfront incentives if you enroll and allow your system to provide grid support for at least five years. The law defines what counts as distribution support services and which on‑site renewable systems qualify.

More access to electric bill help

The Office of Home Energy Programs now runs the State electric help program for households at or below 200% of the federal poverty level. Beginning January 1, 2027, you can get State benefits even if you do not qualify for federal LIHEAP. Past arrearage help from 2020 and 2021 does not count against the limit on how many times you can get arrearage retirement.

More help with energy bills and weatherization

The Electric Universal Service Program has three parts: bill help, low‑income weatherization, and arrearage retirement for customers who have not received arrearage retirement in the past five fiscal years. The State creates a nonlapsing fund for this program, and the Department of Human Services pays out bill help and arrearage retirement under Commission oversight. The Office can set benefit limits, make eligibility rules, coordinate with the Maryland Energy Assistance Program, and hire contractors. If your application lacks documents, the Office must tell you and give you at least three months to fix it, and the utility cannot start a shutoff during that time. Up to $1,000,000 a year goes to DHCD for weatherization as the budget allows, agencies must report yearly results, and older unspent funds from fiscal years 2010–2017 must go to bill help, arrearage relief, targeted weatherization, arrearage management, or prevention programs.

2027 heat pump help for LMI homes

In fiscal year 2027, low‑ and moderate‑income households in the Residential Energy Equity Program get extra help to install or replace heat pumps. The law does not set a per‑household amount. Funding applies only in fiscal year 2027.

Faster home solar permits and inspections

By August 1, 2027, every county and city uses software to permit home solar, home batteries, and main panel work. Local inspectors must finish solar inspections within 5 business days after a proper request. Starting July 1, 2028, if average in‑person waits top five days, a remote inspection option must meet the 5‑day timeline. Manual reviews for flagged or safety cases are allowed, but must finish within 5 business days. Localities are excused if they do not require permits or if the software is not maintained; the state may pause the rule if funding is short. The Attorney General can enforce these rules in court.

One-time grants to prevent utility debt

The Department of Human Services runs a one‑time grant program to prevent utility arrears. It may pick up to two recipients, with at least one serving a major urban area. Grantees must attract private money for rooftop solar and hire local unemployed or underemployed people for installation. Solar can be installed after energy efficiency work is done at the home.

Grants to help pay for batteries

The State runs an Energy Storage System Grant Program. It gives grants to people and businesses to cover part of the purchase and installation cost of energy storage systems. Grants depend on available money, and the agency may require you to join a program or tariff under §7‑1005 to qualify.

Funding for climate startups and geothermal installers

The State provides at least $1.2 million each year from FY2025 through FY2028 to the Climate Technology Founder’s Fund. It also provides at least $2.1 million each year to the Maryland Energy Innovation Fund, subject to the law’s conditions. Compliance fees are kept in a separate account and used only for loans and grants to small minority‑, women‑, and veteran‑owned businesses that install geothermal systems.

Protecting homes from big‑user cost shifts

When it reviews special rates for very large power users, the Commission must make sure those users pay fair interconnection costs. The Commission must also protect residential customers from financial risk by using tools like ramp periods, minimum bills, long‑term commitments and exit fees, collateral, and penalties or reimbursements. The goal is to avoid unfair subsidies from regular customers to large users.

Big power users pay their costs

By September 1, 2026, utilities must file special rate schedules for large‑load customers. The Commission should charge big users for buildout, capacity, and interconnection costs they cause, and add protections like commitments or exit fees. This aims to keep these costs off residential bills.

Clean energy money to LMI communities

Compliance fees fund loans and grants only for new Tier 1 renewable projects that are owned by or directly benefit low‑ and moderate‑income areas or overburdened/underserved communities. Low‑ and moderate‑income means a census‑tract area with income at or below 80% of the state median.

Easier community solar for low‑income households

The law defines who counts as a low‑ or moderate‑income community solar subscriber, including people in overburdened and underserved census tracts. The Commission must study automatic enrollment and bill credits for low‑ and moderate‑income customers and report by July 1, 2027. Earlier‑queued solar projects get priority when moving into the successor program. A portion of solar compliance fees can only fund loans or grants for projects that directly benefit low‑ and moderate‑income or overburdened communities.

How Maryland splits clean energy funds

The state divides allowance sale money this way: at least 50% for energy assistance, at least 20% for efficiency and conservation (with at least half of that for low‑ and moderate‑income programs), at least 20% for renewable and clean energy, and up to 10% for admin costs (capped at $7.5 million). In fiscal year 2026 only, up to $100 million of compliance fees can fund solar on state property and local clean energy projects. Each year, $375,000 supports energy conservation projects through the Chesapeake Conservation and Climate Corps.

More clean energy dollars to LMI communities

Most compliance fee money now only funds new Tier 1 renewable projects that are owned by or directly benefit low‑ and moderate‑income or overburdened/underserved communities. Solar‑designated compliance fees are tracked separately and can only fund new solar that directly benefits those communities or households. Up to 10% of fund proceeds, but not more than $7,500,000, may pay for administration each year.

Loans and grants to meet building energy rules

The State can use Strategic Energy Fund money for loans and grants to help covered buildings meet Maryland’s Building Energy Performance Standards. This reduces compliance costs for owners working to meet those targets.

Clean energy funding timelines and transparency

On or before June 30, 2027, the Governor may transfer the listed energy funds to the named agencies. The Energy Assistance Account is excluded from these transfers. Within 90 days after all grants are signed, the Administration discloses auction winners and the megawatts they will deliver. Reports to the General Assembly are due by July 1, 2027 and July 1, 2028 on auction megawatts, costs, and credits. The Commission issues an RFP for a third‑party administrator and, if cost‑effective, selects one by June 1, 2028 to run the 2030–2032 cycle; it must notify lawmakers if it declines.

Energy fund backs projects, schools, resilience

The law creates the Maryland Strategic Energy Investment Fund and directs money to key programs. At least $500,000 each year goes to Resiliency Hub grants, and $375,000 each year goes to the Chesapeake Bay Trust’s conservation corps. It provides $3,000,000 to the state’s Power Plant Research Program. It funds a $150,000 HVAC study and about $18.85 million for HVAC upgrades in Baltimore City public schools. It sets aside $100 million for renewable energy project grants through a state auction. The state may also fund research and property work to cut power plant impacts.

Merger money cannot cut energy aid

Money paid into the electric universal service program from a merger deal is extra. It cannot replace the regular, required collections that fund customer energy assistance.

Renewable grants go to lowest-cost projects

Maryland ranks renewable grant bids by the lowest price per megawatt and funds them until the capacity goal is met. The state sets deadlines and milestones and can claw back money for fraud, overpayment, misuse, or missed delivery. In fiscal years 2027 and 2028, up to $100 million each year from compliance fees funds these renewable grants.

Gas utility efficiency programs end

Gas companies no longer have to run efficiency, conservation, demand response, or electrification programs. This can mean fewer rebates and services for gas customers.

Electric bill charge funds energy assistance

All electric customers pay a charge on their bills to fund the electric universal service program. The Public Service Commission sets how the charge is shared across customer classes. This adds a line item to most household electric bills.

Gas program charges continue through 2026

If your gas company recovered program costs under the named rule by January 1, 2026, it may keep charging reasonable program and service costs through December 31, 2026 and after, until all such costs are recovered.

Utilities can charge pilot program costs

Investor‑owned utilities can recover reasonable costs to run and join the new distributed energy pilots. They can also seek performance incentives tied to using distributed resources. These changes can raise customer bills, depending on regulator decisions.

Caps and choices for supplier plans

For non‑green offers, residential supplier prices are capped by contract length: up to 100% of the utility’s standard rate for 1–23 months, 105% for 24–35 months, and 110% for 36 months. Contracts cannot exceed 36 months. Suppliers may offer variable plans only if they use time‑of‑use pricing, change seasonally no more than twice a year, or never exceed the utility’s standard offer rate.

New net metering rules and transition

Utilities must offer a standard net metering contract on a first‑come, first‑served basis until the State reaches 3,000 MW of customer generation or July 1, 2027, whichever comes first. Beginning July 1, 2027, the Commission starts a successor net metering program that balances fair export pay with ratepayer costs and grid needs. The successor runs until the combined capacity under the old and new programs reaches 6,000 MW. The Commission must prioritize successor‑program applications from customers who were already in the queue when the new program began.

New rooftop solar credit rules in 2027

Maryland replaces net energy metering with a successor program starting July 1, 2027. The Public Service Commission must take input from utilities, solar owners, developers, experts, and consumer advocates and report recommendations by December 15, 2026. The new rules set how rooftop solar owners are credited and connected and how current customers transition.

Limits on utility charges and plans

Multiyear rate plans must show customer benefits and cannot add extra charges later through reconciliation or cost sharing. Companies generally cannot file reconciliations that raise charges after January 1, 2025, and plans can require refunds if revenues run high. Investor‑owned utilities cannot pass certain corporate costs to customers, including trade‑association dues, private plane costs, or supervisor pay above 110% of the PSC Chair’s salary. The law also changes some cost‑recovery rules and allowed supply rate structures, which can raise or lower bills depending on how regulators apply them.

Nuclear pricing surcharge with protections

The Commission establishes a nonbypassable surcharge on bills to recover long‑term nuclear pricing costs. It also creates an escrow to handle nuclear pricing and requires utilities to buy zero‑emission credits each year from escrow based on their retail sales share. The Commission updates long‑term pricing values every two years and sets a per‑megawatt‑hour cap. Any approved increase in a project’s recoverable total cost is capped at 15% and must be approved before commercial operation.

Upfront rebates for home solar/storage

The Maryland Energy Administration may give upfront rebates to customers who enroll in a pilot or temporary tariff and let their on‑site solar or storage support the grid for at least five years. Incentives are designed to add to, not duplicate, other state and federal incentives, and may prioritize low‑ and moderate‑income customers. Investor‑owned utilities should, when feasible, recover their program administration costs within the same year they spend the money.

2027–2028 grants for renewable developers

In 2027 and 2028, the Energy Administration runs one competitive auction each year to award grants for renewable energy projects using alternative compliance fee money. Bidders must be developers and may need to post a bond, show good credit, agree to taxes and fees, and prove they can finance and build the project.

Tougher rules for power plant approvals

The state changes which generating projects need a certificate and how applications are handled. New certificate requirements apply only to applications filed on or after July 1, 2026. Each certificate must include federal and state environmental laws identified by the Department of the Environment, and the Commission cannot adopt methods that conflict with those laws. One section of this Act ends if a termination rule in a 2024 law takes effect.

New net metering rules start 2027

The Public Service Commission must approve a new net metering framework by February 1, 2027. The new program starts July 1, 2027 and must encourage local generation while limiting costs for all customers. For smaller utilities with 2025 peak demand of 2,500 MW or less, community solar net metering is capped at 150% of projects that had a queue spot on April 1, 2026. If that cap is hit, new projects without a queue spot cannot enroll. The Commission must run a proceeding and send recommendations by December 15, 2026.

Utility plans to cut energy use and emissions

The law puts utility energy plans on three-year cycles starting in 2027. The Commission sets yearly savings targets based on 2016 sales: 2.0% in 2024; 2.25% in 2025–26; 1.75% in 2027–29; 2.0% in 2030–32; 2.25% in 2033–35; and 2.5% from 2036 on. Starting January 1, 2025, at least 80% of counted cuts must come from behind-the-meter programs. Utilities must consult by July 1 and file by September 1 every three years from 2026, with earlier 2024 dates for lagging filers. Plan reviews use state cost tests that count quantifiable nonenergy benefits, include low‑income measures, and get six‑month progress updates that can trigger fixes. The Commission sets targets in 2024, the Environment Department reviews plan alignment, and midsize co‑ops must file a 2027‑cycle plan and annual March 1 results.

Energy funds and credit rules updated

The state changes how the Strategic Energy Investment Fund can be used and requires auctions for some compliance fees. It updates definitions for large capacity energy resources (20 MW after effective load carrying capability) and zero‑emission credits, affecting who qualifies in future solicitations. The Board may waive certain termination clauses in multi‑year renewable energy contracts if needed for financing. The law also changes how some energy incentives and rebates are administered.

New clean energy rules for utilities

Electric companies must design energy efficiency, demand response, and electrification programs for Commission review. The Commission may approve demand response only if it is cost‑effective and improves reliability. Utilities cannot count EV adoption toward plan targets. From 2027 to 2029, no more than 20% of counted reductions can come from community or distribution‑connected solar, and those cannot satisfy the 80% behind‑the‑meter share. This section does not authorize utilities to build or own generation or storage to comply. The law also changes utilities’ greenhouse gas targets and how they must comply. Customers cannot be required to let the utility control their usage; participation must be voluntary.

Nuclear costs and state liability rules

The Commission may approve a higher total cost for a specified nuclear project under conditions in the law. The State is not responsible for any debt or liability of a nuclear project or its owner.

Community solar caps and timelines

The successor net metering program stops taking new projects once total statewide capacity reaches 6,000 megawatts. A community solar project that missed July 1, 2027 can still get net metering if it meets program rules and goes in service within three years after the new program starts. Co‑located community solar is capped at 5 MW, unless it serves at least 75% low‑ and moderate‑income subscribers or uses certain sites. With those exceptions, up to 10 MW may share one parcel and up to 20 MW may span adjacent parcels.

Grants to utilities to cut admin costs

The law uses $100 million from compliance fees to give grants to electric companies to pay program implementation and admin costs. In fiscal year 2027, the State also gives grants to investor‑owned utilities, cooperatives, and municipal utilities for these costs. These grants reduce what utilities must cover through their own budgets; the law does not set direct bill credits here.

New energy savings plans from utilities

Utilities, the Environment Department, and some cooperatives must run programs for efficiency, demand response, and beneficial electrification, with Commission approval. Covered utilities must file plans by set deadlines and then every three years, starting January 1, 2025 and again January 1, 2027. The Commission sets greenhouse gas targets for 2025–2026 and each three‑year cycle from 2027, using a baseline year and metric tons. Targets match annual electricity savings of 2.0% in 2024; 2.25% in 2025–26; 1.75% in 2027–29; 2.0% in 2030–32; 2.25% in 2033–35; and 2.5% in 2036 and after, using 2016 sales as the baseline. Starting January 1, 2025, at least 80% of counted reductions must come from behind‑the‑meter programs, which can include customer‑sited storage. Plans must include residential electrification, address low‑income communities, and show costs and projected benefits.

New rates for very large power users

The large‑load cutoff drops to 25 megawatts and a 75% load factor. If your facility will use over 25 MW at one site or in aggregate, you must take service under the specific large‑load schedule after it takes effect. Existing large customers with service agreements signed before that date stay exempt unless they expand load by more than 25 MW or sign a new agreement that does. Electrified thermal generation tied to district energy is also exempt if the Commission finds no material reliability risk.

New rules and fees for large power users

Beginning July 1, 2027, large load customers pay a registration fee of at least $1,000 per megawatt of peak load. A voluntary Clean Capacity Rating Program gives Gold and Platinum firms priority for load studies and interconnection; Platinum also gets 12‑month permit processing and may supply substation equipment at its own expense. Gold must cover at least 80% of peak load with incremental resources; Platinum must cover 100%. Firms must update the Commission on duplicative interconnection requests, and the Commission certifies complete registrations within 60 days. Sensitive commercial data stays confidential until operations. The Commission must fine firms that fail to register or break program MOUs, and utilities must set approved interconnection processes that prioritize rated customers without delaying others.

New rules for very large power users

By July 1, 2027, the Commission creates a registry for very large electricity users to improve planning. It applies to customers with at least 25 megawatts of monthly demand and a load factor over 60%. New or expanded interconnections must register and disclose detailed load, timing, site, water, and backup power information. Registration is due within 30 days after a FERC‑jurisdictional agreement is signed, or after the utility provides required information. Utilities must notify the Commission and the customer when sending PJM information that may affect forecasts or markets. By June 1, 2026, the Commission sets rules for notices, deadlines, acceptable collateral, study timelines, and fee payments.

State buys big grid batteries

The state runs competitive bids for transmission‑connected energy storage. One solicitation is due by January 1, 2026 and another by January 1, 2027, each targeting 800 MW, with decisions by October 1 of those years. Projects must be online within 24 months unless extended. Proposals must include a 15‑year pricing schedule, a full cost–benefit review using EPA’s social cost of carbon as of January 1, 2025, wage‑law compliance, and a community benefit agreement. Storage must meet PJM deliverability rules to count.

Statewide energy storage program by 2025

The Commission establishes the Maryland Energy Storage Program by July 1, 2025. The goal is at least 3,000 megawatts of storage by the end of delivery year 2033, or the most that is cost‑effective. The program can run competitive procurements, offer credits and incentives, and may require investor‑owned utilities to install storage or buy storage credits. Participants must try to get state and federal grants, rebates, tax credits, or loan guarantees to lower costs.

Streamlined siting study and stricter approvals

The Power Plant Research Program must study how to speed state energy permits and name up to 50 priority sites. Sites include brownfields, low‑population industrial sites, and places that can be repowered, with focus on surplus interconnection. The study finds bottlenecks and recommends a state fast‑track and reports by December 31, 2026. Separately, the Commission issues project certificates only by majority vote. If a majority cannot agree on conditions for a conditional certificate, the certificate is denied.

Stronger review and notice for power lines

You cannot start a transmission line over 69,000 volts without a state certificate. Only an electric company or an entity that will be federally regulated can get that certificate; and if a line lies only inside one utility’s territory and that utility’s customers will pay for it, only that utility can get approval. Overhead lines may not be approved within 1 mile off the end of a public runway unless the FAA finds no hazard and Maryland Aviation agrees. Landowners abutting or adjacent to a proposed line must get certified‑mail notice at least 30 days before the public hearing. Counties and cities must act on required local permits in a reasonable time and cannot condition them on special exceptions or similar zoning actions. The Commission reviews alternatives, costs, routes, and community engagement; it decides CPCN waiver requests in 90 days (with up to 60 more days if needed).

Stronger rules for transmission and storage

Owners of certain transmission lines must join a regional transmission organization; electric cooperatives are excluded. CPCN holders must follow PJM, NERC, and FERC rules for operating and maintaining lines. CPCN applications must show planning and routing options, cost and community impacts, and say if the route uses brownfields, existing easements, or existing towers. The Commission may waive a CPCN for work on existing lines for good cause after weighing ratepayer costs and environmental effects. Storage that provides transmission services can be treated as a transmission asset, is not dispatched for wholesale energy except as allowed, and can recover costs in transmission rates.

Utility cost recovery and legacy caps

Investor‑owned utilities can recover reasonable program and admin costs, and should recover them in the same calendar year when possible. If a required surcharge is not collected, the unpaid amount counts as a distribution cost for ratemaking. Each company gets a 0.75% credit against its Environmental Trust Fund payment based on surcharge receipts. By December 31, 2032, older unpaid and unamortized program costs from before January 1, 2028 must be eliminated, with compensation limited to each company’s average debt cost. The Commission must also set performance incentives and penalties for investor‑owned utilities.

Prevailing wage rules for energy projects

Solar power station projects must, within 90 days before starting construction, get a state prevailing wage determination and pay at least that wage. Applications must state they will follow the wage rules. Large‑load customers seeking a Gold or Platinum rating must also pay prevailing wage. They must sign an MOU promising capacity for the life of the facility and accept Commission enforcement.

Clean energy auctions, refunds to customers

The energy agency must publish winning bidders and megawatts within 90 days after clean energy auction contracts are signed. By July 1, 2027 and July 1, 2028, the agency and the Commission must report megawatts, costs, and renewable credits to the legislature. If there are not enough zero‑emission credits and overpayments occur, the extra money goes back to utilities and then to customers as refunds or bill credits based on their use of renewable‑portfolio electricity, subject to any escrow reserve the Commission sets.

Easier approvals for small energy projects

Small on‑site generators up to 2 megawatts with anti‑export equipment are not treated as regulated generating stations. Certain groups of small, separately metered units can also qualify if they do not sell into wholesale markets and stay within the law’s size limits. If a project needs a certificate of public convenience and necessity, that certificate also counts as key water‑use and construction permits under state law.

Faster hookups for home solar and batteries

Electric companies must handle any needed meter disconnection and reconnection for residential solar and energy storage within 5 business days after a properly completed request. This does not apply to municipal utilities or third‑party contractors.

Stronger rules for supplier sales and renewals

Residential electricity suppliers cannot pay sales commissions or other incentive pay for signing up customers. A supplier may auto‑renew a non‑green residential supply contract only if it gives two notices: 90 days before renewal and 30 days before renewal.

Utilities must tell you about rebates

Your electric company must promote federal and state rebates, tax credits, and incentives. This includes help for efficient appliances, non‑fossil cooking, breaker box upgrades, and portable heating and cooling. Better information can help you find savings.

Utility load control is voluntary

The Commission cannot require customers to let a utility control their electricity use. You may join a load control program only if you choose to do so.

2027 grants for home and business storage

In fiscal year 2027, the state adds money to the on‑site energy storage grant program. Homes and businesses that apply and are selected can get a one‑year grant or rebate to help pay for storage. This extra funding applies only in fiscal year 2027.

Grants to prevent utility debt

Maryland created a one‑time Arrearage Prevention Grant Program. It aims to prevent or reduce unpaid energy bills for low‑income customers who completed a residential weatherization program. The state will pick up to two groups to run it, and at least one must mainly serve a major city. After efficiency work is done, the program can include rooftop solar to lower bills long‑term.

Simpler permits, capped fees for home solar

The state updates steps for permitting, inspection, and interconnection of home solar systems. Starting August 1, 2027, if your permit is issued by the required software and your system is under 20 kW (inverter AC), the local permit fee cannot be more than $500. A separate third‑party payment processing fee may still apply.

Yearly funds for low-income weatherization

Each year, up to $1 million goes to the Housing Department for low‑income home weatherization, as set in the State budget. The funds help eligible households lower energy use and bills.

Job and pension protections in DHS move

If you are moved to the Department of Human Services by this law, your pay, benefits, job, and retirement stay the same. The transfer cannot reduce your rights or status.

New clean energy loans for nonprofits

The Maryland Clean Energy Center now runs a loan program for nonprofits to install clean energy or efficiency projects. The program’s loan fund receives money from the Maryland Strategic Energy Investment Fund. By July 1, 2027, the Center sets the application, selection, and repayment rules and runs outreach. It considers building ownership, property size, energy use, geography, diversity, and the borrower’s share of costs.

No-interest energy loans for nonprofits

Maryland created a no‑interest loan program for 501(c)(3) nonprofits to install qualifying energy systems and improve efficiency. Borrowers must put in at least 10% of project costs and show projected savings cover the loan over its life. The Center can allow deferred payments and sets the repayment schedule. A special nonlapsing fund supports the program, and the Governor may include $5 million in fiscal year 2028 and at least $5 million minus the prior June 30 fund balance in fiscal year 2029.

2027 boost for state energy reviews

In fiscal year 2027, the State gives extra funds to the Power Plant Research Program to review renewable and clean energy projects. This supports timely, thorough project oversight.

More public data on energy and utilities

The Public Service Commission must publish public dashboards and improve its website with keyword search and case landing pages for materials posted on or after July 1, 2026. State agencies must provide publicly disclosable data for these dashboards. The Environment Department reports each year on emissions cuts from electric vehicles starting December 31, 2027. The Commission also submits an annual report on energy storage progress by November 1. Fund audits may charge their fiscal costs to the fund, which can slightly reduce program dollars.

Easier to join PSC utility cases

If you file on time, you may intervene in a Commission case. The Commission must allow it unless your interests are already covered or your issues are irrelevant. Intervenors have full party rights and can represent themselves.

New state energy planning office

The law creates a Strategic Energy Planning Office. The Governor appoints a Director for a five‑year term; the first term begins July 1, 2026. Each year, lawmakers may request up to five policy scenario studies by November 1, and the Office reports within one year.

Nonprofit energy loans: annual public report

Each year by December 1, the Center reports on the nonprofit energy loan program. The report lists number and dollar value of loans, average loan term, estimated annual kilowatt‑hour savings, and greenhouse gas cuts in metric tons.

Public dashboards for solar and storage

The Public Service Commission creates online dashboards that show progress on state energy programs. The dashboards include net metering and the statewide energy storage goal. The Commission builds them with input from the Energy Administration and the Power Plant Research Program.

Safety, climate, and reliability checks for projects

Emergency work on existing transmission lines may proceed without a certificate to prevent safety or reliability risks. A report to the Commission is due within 30 days. Before final approval, the Commission must weigh reliability, costs, aesthetics, historic sites, air and water quality, waste, and climate change using the best IPCC science. For plants, it must also review zoning, local issue resolution, and greenhouse gas impacts. Applicants must show alternatives and expected demand, list routes and costs for new lines, follow PJM/NERC/FERC rules, and flag brownfields or existing easements and towers. Local governments may act on local permits but cannot add certain extra zoning conditions.

Stronger notice and faster project decisions

When a power project seeks a certificate, the Commission must immediately notify local governments, nearby landowners for lines, state agencies, and area lawmakers. It must publish weekly notices for four weeks and hold a hearing in each affected county or town, with a virtual option. Applicants must file at least two years before construction unless waived. The Commission must decide within 90 days after hearings end. Transmission owners must report congestion costs by December 1, 2026 and every four years, and the Commission must post reports within 45 days. The state also studies ways to speed permits and names up to 50 priority energy sites by December 31, 2026.

Temporary block on forecast-based rate hikes

The Commission may not approve a base rate increase that relies on a forecast test year until the test‑year review is finished or April 1, 2027, whichever is later. This delays forecast‑based rate hikes for now.

2027 funds for Baltimore school HVAC

In fiscal year 2027, the State funds a study of heating and cooling in Baltimore City public schools. It also funds HVAC repairs or replacements. This aims to improve classroom comfort and reliability for students and staff.

More projects can bid storage

State solicitations can include front‑of‑the‑meter storage paired with Tier 1 or Tier 2 renewables. They can also include front‑of‑the‑meter storage that is in‑state and has a PJM project identifier for new service.

New rules for nuclear and large projects

A large capacity energy resource is now defined as 20 MW or more after adjustments. A zero‑emission credit equals the environmental attributes of 1 megawatt‑hour from a Commission‑approved nuclear plant. The State of Maryland is not liable for the debts or obligations of private nuclear projects.

Easier financing for renewable contracts

For multi‑year contracts to buy Tier 1 or Tier 2 renewable power, the Board may waive automatic termination or termination‑for‑convenience clauses. The Board considers how those clauses affect a supplier’s ability to get financing. This can help projects secure funding and move forward.

Grants for industrial CHP projects

The state fund provides grants to support combined heat and power at industrial facilities. These grants aim to improve on‑site efficiency and resiliency.

Fixed yearly charge funds bill assistance

Each year, $37 million is collected statewide to fund electric bill assistance. $27.4 million comes from industrial and commercial customers and $9.6 million from residential customers. This charge supports the Electric Universal Service Program and shows up in utility rates.

Large-load customers face new steps

Before signing a large‑load rate contract, a customer must request a load study, pay any fees, pick a site, and show land rights. Large‑load customers in the voluntary clean capacity program must also request a load study before service contracts. By October 1, 2027 and each year after, the Commission reports aggregated Large Load Customer Registry data by service area while protecting confidential information.

Portable solar easier, no credits

You can install and use portable solar without utility approval, extra controls, or backfeed fees. Portable systems are excluded from some interconnection rules. However, portable solar cannot count toward the state renewable standard and cannot earn renewable energy credits. The utility is not liable for damage caused by a portable system.

Simple rules for plug‑in home solar

The law sets rules for portable, plug‑in solar that connects to a standard outlet. One section treats systems up to 1,200 watts as portable; another section limits outlet backfeed to 391 watts and lets very small systems (≤391 watts) skip product listings that would force building or wiring changes. You may install no more than one portable system per residential meter. You must notify your electric company and certify the system’s safety features and max output. If your setup requires an automatic locking disconnect switch, you must pay for that switch.

Efficiency programs at municipal and co‑ops

Municipal utilities and small rural cooperatives must offer energy efficiency, demand response, and electrification programs. Midsize cooperatives run basic programs through 2026. By October 1, 2025, the Commission decides if, starting January 1, 2027, each midsize co‑op must follow the full rules that apply to electric companies. These programs can lower use and bills, but program costs can also affect rates.

Rules for home batteries at peak

The Commission sets rules for when behind‑the‑meter batteries may charge or discharge during peak demand. These rules coordinate grid needs and may change how much you can save with a home battery.

New capped energy surcharge on bills

The Public Service Commission adds a per‑kWh surcharge to electric bills, and utilities pass it through to customers. The Comptroller collects the money into a State fund. The charge is capped each month at the smaller of $0.00015 per kWh or $1,000 per account. The surcharge ends after fiscal year 2030.

Board can waive some contract clauses

The Board of Public Works may waive certain clauses in a specified state contract. This gives the Board more flexibility when making that contract.

Data centers banned in some Baltimore districts

Data centers cannot be built in Baltimore City development districts that are repaying bonds, except in the City‑wide Affordable Housing Development District. A covered data center uses at least 5 megawatts and has a load factor over 80%.

When parts of this law take effect

The act is an emergency measure and takes effect May 12, 2026, except for sections named in the law. Some sections listed in the act take effect on July 1, 2026. These dates control when the related parts and programs start.

New energy surcharge fund and oversight

The Comptroller collects surcharge money and deposits it into a special state fund. The Secretary runs the fund, which does not lapse at year‑end and follows state budget rules. Any investment earnings go to the State General Fund, not back into this fund. The fund must pay its audit costs. The fund may also pay costs for the Air and Radiation Administration.

New rules for Environmental Trust spending

The law changes what the Environmental Trust Fund can pay for. Agencies may shift which environmental and community projects get funding.

Updated utility regulation and planning timelines

The Commission may use price caps, revenue rules, or other models if they protect consumers and reliability. It studies test‑year methods for rate cases and reports by April 1, 2027. If load‑forecast timelines are too short, it must notify lawmakers by December 1, 2026. Lawmakers can request up to five policy scenarios by August 1, 2026, with results due December 31, 2026. The Commission must send program recommendations by November 1, 2027 and may pick a single third‑party administrator for the 2030 cycle. The Commission can hire outside experts. A voluntary interruptible interconnection option for large loads is set with compliance checks and possible penalties.

New rules for large power users

By January 1, 2027, large load customers must register with the Commission after signing an interconnection agreement and before interconnection. Registration includes plans for on‑site generation, backup generation details, and monthly water use. Starting July 1, 2027, utilities cannot ask PJM for a large‑load adjustment unless the customer completed registration. The law defines an on‑site backup generator for large customers and tells the Commission to stop utilities from counting behind‑the‑meter storage as added load in load studies.

New rules for utility emissions targets

The Commission may not count increased electric vehicle adoption toward utility greenhouse gas targets. From January 1, 2027 through December 31, 2029, no more than 20% of counted reductions may come from community or other distribution‑connected solar. Those reductions also cannot count toward the 80% behind‑the‑meter share. Utilities remain barred from owning generation or storage to meet these targets.

Power plant research funding and credits

Beginning in fiscal year 2028, the state provides $5 million each year to the Power Plant Research Program. Each electric company gets a credit equal to 0.75% of its attributed surcharge against payments to the Environmental Trust Fund. The Secretary administers the Fund and can contract for research, property, and technology work on power plants. The Fund does not lapse; its investment earnings go to the General Fund and money is spent as the budget directs.

Study on one program administrator

The Public Service Commission asks for input on using one private administrator to run certain energy programs. The request studies costs, barriers, and pros and cons versus state administration. Responses are due by July 1, 2027.

Transmission siting and grid standards

Owners of transmission lines above 69,000 volts located in the state must join a regional transmission organization. The law defines advanced transmission technologies to guide planning and permit reviews. New certificate requirements apply only to applications filed on or after July 1, 2026. Overhead lines aligned with and within one mile of a public runway end need FAA and Maryland Aviation Administration clearance to avoid hazards.

New rules for very large power users

By June 1, 2026, the Commission sets rules for large‑load customers. By September 1, 2026, investor‑owned utilities and co‑ops must file large‑load rate schedules for approval, and municipal utilities must file if they receive an application. Before signing a contract, a large‑load customer must request and pay for a load study, name the service site, have site control, and meet other listed terms.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Marc Korman
Democratic • House

Cosponsors

Nick Allen
Democratic • House
Dylan Behler
Democratic • House
Linda Foley
Democratic • House
David Fraser-Hidalgo
Democratic • House
Michele Guyton
Democratic • House
Anne Healey
Democratic • House
Marvin E. Holmes
Democratic • House
Jeffrie E. Long
Democratic • House
Robbyn Lewis
Democratic • House
Darrell Odom
Democratic • House
Dana Stein
Democratic • House
Natalie Ziegler
Democratic • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 983 • No: 1,840

House vote • 4/13/2026

Third Reading Passed

Yes: 105 • No: 27 • Other: 8

Senate vote • 4/13/2026

Motion Limit Debate (Senator King) Adopted

Yes: 32 • No: 13 • Other: 2

Senate vote • 4/13/2026

Conference Committee Report {583123/1 Adopted

Yes: 33 • No: 11 • Other: 3

Senate vote • 4/13/2026

Third Reading Passed

Yes: 35 • No: 11 • Other: 1

Senate vote • 4/6/2026

Third Readings Passed with Amendments

Yes: 38 • No: 4

House vote • 3/17/2026

Floor Amendment {303926/1 (Delegate Buckel) Rejected

Yes: 38 • No: 98 • Other: 3

House vote • 3/17/2026

Floor Amendment {283823/1 (Delegate Nkongolo) Rejected

Yes: 37 • No: 98 • Other: 3

House vote • 3/17/2026

Floor Amendment {283429/1 (Delegate Schmidt) Rejected

Yes: 31 • No: 99 • Other: 8

House vote • 3/17/2026

Floor Amendment {423729/1 (Delegate Fisher) Rejected

Yes: 35 • No: 98 • Other: 5

House vote • 3/17/2026

Floor Amendment {863121/1 (Delegate Buckel) Rejected

Yes: 34 • No: 99 • Other: 5

House vote • 3/17/2026

Floor Amendment {403924/1 (Delegate Griffith) Rejected

Yes: 36 • No: 98 • Other: 4

House vote • 3/17/2026

Floor Amendment {303024/1 (Delegate Howard) Rejected

Yes: 39 • No: 96 • Other: 4

House vote • 3/17/2026

Floor Amendment {663523/1 (Delegate Hartman) Rejected

Yes: 37 • No: 98 • Other: 3

House vote • 3/17/2026

Floor Amendment {993026/1 (Delegate Adams) Rejected

Yes: 24 • No: 99 • Other: 15

House vote • 3/17/2026

Floor Amendment {513823/1 (Delegate Chisholm) Rejected

Yes: 35 • No: 94 • Other: 9

House vote • 3/17/2026

Floor Amendment {403425/1 (Delegate Wivell) Rejected

Yes: 36 • No: 90 • Other: 12

House vote • 3/17/2026

Floor Amendment {713521/1 (Delegate Tomlinson) Rejected

Yes: 38 • No: 95 • Other: 5

House vote • 3/17/2026

Floor Amendment {793623/1 (Delegate Buckel) Rejected

Yes: 33 • No: 99 • Other: 6

House vote • 3/17/2026

Floor Amendment {693028/1 (Delegate Hornberger) Rejected

Yes: 31 • No: 100 • Other: 7

House vote • 3/17/2026

Floor Amendment {603022/1 (Delegate Rose) Rejected

Yes: 37 • No: 98 • Other: 3

House vote • 3/17/2026

Floor Amendment {423827/1 (Delegate Buckel) Rejected

Yes: 38 • No: 96 • Other: 4

House vote • 3/17/2026

Floor Amendment {113421/1 (Delegate Fisher) Rejected

Yes: 36 • No: 97 • Other: 5

House vote • 3/17/2026

Third Reading Passed

Yes: 108 • No: 25 • Other: 3

House vote • 3/17/2026

Floor Amendment {813424/1 (Delegate Hornberger) Rejected

Yes: 37 • No: 97 • Other: 5

Actions Timeline

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 353
5/12/2026
Passed Enrolled
4/13/2026House
Third Reading Passed (35-11)
4/13/2026Senate
Conference Committee Report {583123/1 Adopted (33-11)
4/13/2026Senate
Motion Limit Debate (Senator King) Adopted (32-13)
4/13/2026Senate
Conference Committee Report {583123/1
4/13/2026Senate
Third Reading Passed (105-27)
4/13/2026House
Conference Committee Report {583123/1 Adopted
4/13/2026House
Senate Conference Committee Appointed (Senators Feldman, Hester and Simonaire)
4/9/2026House
Senate Refuses Recede
4/9/2026House
Senate Conference Committee Appointed (Senators Feldman, Hester and Simonaire)
4/9/2026Senate
Senate Refuses Recede
4/9/2026Senate
House Conference Committee Appointed (Delegates Korman, Fraser-Hidalgo and Guyton)
4/9/2026Senate
House Requests Senate Recede
4/9/2026Senate
House Refuses Concur Senate Amendments
4/9/2026Senate
House Conference Committee Appointed (Delegates Korman, Fraser-Hidalgo and Guyton)
4/8/2026House
House Requests Senate Recede
4/8/2026House
House Refuses Concur Senate Amendments
4/8/2026House
Third Readings Passed with Amendments (38-4)
4/6/2026Senate
Floor Amendment {353225/1 (Chair, Education, Energy, and the Environment Committee) Adopted
4/6/2026Senate
Second Reading Passed with Amendments
4/2/2026Senate
Favorable with Amendments {393820/1 Adopted
4/2/2026Senate
Favorable with Amendments Report by Education, Energy, and the Environment
4/2/2026Senate
Hearing 3/25 at 1:00 p.m.
3/20/2026Senate
Referred Education, Energy, and the Environment
3/18/2026Senate

Bill Text

Enacted
5/12/2026
PDF
Enrolled
4/13/2026
PDF
Third Reading
3/17/2026
PDF
First Reading
2/13/2026
PDF

Related Bills

Back to State Legislation

How does this bill affect your finances?

Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

High Impact

Grants for home and business batteries

Grants to install home solar

Heat pump funding for low‑income homes

More electric bill help for low‑income households

More energy help for low‑income homes

Bill protections on new nuclear projects

Clean energy fund split from 2028

Energy fund backs efficiency and clean power

New surcharges and cost recovery on bills

How Maryland funds electric bill help

Nuclear credit program and bill charges

Two-year funding for renewable auctions

Medium Impact

Clearer utility rate info and rebates

Faster, cheaper permits for rooftop solar

Faster, simpler permits for home solar

Limits on utility costs passed through

More money for home solar rebates

Net metering transition for community solar

Stronger rules for utility rates

Stronger utility bill notices and cost limits

Tighter rules on multi-year utility rates

Tighter rules on residential power contracts

2027 electric bill refunds and relief

2027 monthly energy bill refunds

Caps and rules for program surcharge

Community solar program and deadline relief

Limited‑income utility rate programs and credits

Loans and grants for electrification projects

Net metering protections during transition

One-time bill credits and master-meters

One‑time 2027 bill refunds

Pilot payments for home energy systems

More access to electric bill help

More help with energy bills and weatherization

2027 heat pump help for LMI homes

Faster home solar permits and inspections

One-time grants to prevent utility debt

Grants to help pay for batteries

Funding for climate startups and geothermal installers

Protecting homes from big‑user cost shifts

Big power users pay their costs

Clean energy money to LMI communities

Easier community solar for low‑income households

How Maryland splits clean energy funds

More clean energy dollars to LMI communities

Loans and grants to meet building energy rules

Clean energy funding timelines and transparency

Energy fund backs projects, schools, resilience

Merger money cannot cut energy aid

Renewable grants go to lowest-cost projects

Gas utility efficiency programs end

Electric bill charge funds energy assistance

Gas program charges continue through 2026

Utilities can charge pilot program costs

Caps and choices for supplier plans

New net metering rules and transition

New rooftop solar credit rules in 2027

Limits on utility charges and plans

Nuclear pricing surcharge with protections

Upfront rebates for home solar/storage

2027–2028 grants for renewable developers

Tougher rules for power plant approvals

New net metering rules start 2027

Utility plans to cut energy use and emissions

Energy funds and credit rules updated

New clean energy rules for utilities

Nuclear costs and state liability rules

Community solar caps and timelines

Grants to utilities to cut admin costs

New energy savings plans from utilities

New rates for very large power users

New rules and fees for large power users

New rules for very large power users

State buys big grid batteries

Statewide energy storage program by 2025