Construction and Expansion of Transmission Lines and Task Force to Develop a Realistic Electricity Plan for Maryland

HB 1218 creates a 19-member Task Force to study Maryland’s electricity needs through 2040 and recommend policies to reduce reliance on out-of-state power. The Task Force, including state officials, utility representatives (like BGE and Constellation), environmental groups, and ratepayer advocates, must analyze electricity forecasts, costs, and options to ensure Maryland imports no more than 25% of its power by 2030-2040. The bill also imposes a temporary 12-month pause (July 2025-May 2026) on the Public Service Commission approving new transmission line projects. This pause gives the Task Force time to develop recommendations on energy sources, grid upgrades, and cost impacts for Maryland ratepayers. The Task Force must submit its findings to the Governor and General Assembly by December 2025.