Energy (Energy Resilience)

SB 596 exempts large commercial or industrial electricity customers (defined as those with 25+ MW monthly demand and over 80% load factor) from needing a certificate of public convenience to connect to the grid when using surplus interconnection capacity. It establishes a new interconnection process with standard and expedited timelines, requiring these customers to cover 25% of their power needs through on-site storage, new carbon-free energy sources, or demand response. The bill also mandates a Demand Response Program where large customers can opt for scheduled load reductions during peak times in exchange for compensation, with fees from interconnection requests split between universal service and low-income energy efficiency programs.

HB 799 requires Maryland's Public Service Commission to create regulations for generating stations co-located with data centers that operate independently - without connecting to the state's main power grid. It directly affects data center operators and energy generators by exempting these facilities from state renewable energy mandates, distribution fees, and retail electricity regulations. Key provisions include mandating on-site backup power, cybersecurity safeguards, and annual reports on energy sources, environmental impact, and contributions to state energy goals. The bill aims to establish clear rules for off-grid energy systems while ensuring reliability and accountability.

HB 1217 modifies Maryland's building energy standards by adding specific exemptions for certain covered buildings. It exempts facilities housing "permanent sensitive compartmented information facilities" (like military or government sites) and excludes energy use related to sterilization and emergency backup power in healthcare, laboratories, and similar facilities from emissions targets. The bill updates existing requirements that mandate 20% emissions reductions by 2030 and net-zero by 2040 for commercial buildings over 35,000 sq. ft. These changes clarify which building types and energy uses are not subject to the energy use intensity targets under Maryland law.

SB 386 (Lower Bills and Local Power Act of 2026) requires electric companies operating high-voltage transmission lines (over 69,000 volts) in Maryland to join a regional transmission organization. It mandates that applicants seeking permits for new transmission lines must include alternative proposals using advanced transmission technologies and compare their cost-effectiveness. The bill creates a new Solar and Energy Storage Market Stabilization Program within the Maryland Energy Administration and directs funds from the Strategic Energy Investment Fund to provide refunds or credits to residential customers. These changes aim to modernize transmission infrastructure, promote technology adoption, and reduce costs for Maryland ratepayers.