Bill > HB897

This bill requires electric companies in Maryland that operate transmission lines carrying over 69,000 volts to join a regional transmission organization, which is a group that coordinates power grid operations across multiple states to ensure reliability and efficiency. It also mandates that anyone applying for a permit to build such a transmission line must submit at least one alternative proposal using advanced transmission technologies, which are defined as technologies like "dynamic line ratings" (systems that use real-time weather to determine a line's capacity) and "grid-enhancing technologies" (hardware or software that improves existing lines), and provide a detailed comparison of these alternatives with the primary proposal. Furthermore, transmission utilities must submit regular reports on their plans to implement these advanced technologies, and the bill establishes a "Solar and Energy Storage Market Stabilization Program" to provide financial assistance for clean energy projects facing investment gaps due to the loss of federal tax incentives, funded in part by the Maryland Strategic Energy Investment Fund. Finally, the bill directs the Department of Transportation to develop processes and an expedited approval system for placing electric transmission lines and energy storage systems within state highway rights-of-way, and allocates funds from the Maryland Strategic Energy Investment Fund for residential energy relief and studies on utilizing highway rights-of-way.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0897?ys=2026RS