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HB 928

Certificates of Public Convenience and Necessity - Transmission Lines - Applicability and Waivers

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Nick Allen and 11 co-sponsors

HB 928 modifies Maryland's transmission line permitting by adjusting certificate requirements and waiver eligibility, potentially accelerating grid infrastructure projects while raising local accountability concerns.

First Reading Environment and Transportation
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Bill Summary · HB 928

Legislative bill overview

HB 928 modifies Maryland's regulatory framework for certificates of public convenience and necessity (CPCN) as they apply to electric transmission lines. The bill appears to establish new applicability standards and waiver procedures for utilities seeking to construct or expand transmission infrastructure. This represents a technical adjustment to how the state evaluates major energy infrastructure projects.

Why is this important

Transmission line projects are critical for grid modernization, renewable energy integration, and meeting Maryland's climate goals, but they often face permitting delays and community opposition. How these certificates are granted or waived directly affects the speed and cost of energy infrastructure development, which ultimately influences electricity rates and the state's ability to transition to clean energy.

Potential points of contention

  • Streamlining vs. local accountability: Expanding waivers for CPCN requirements may expedite projects but could reduce opportunities for local communities to contest transmission line siting decisions
  • Environmental and property rights concerns: Transmission corridors can affect property values, land use, and environmental impacts; changing approval processes may shift the balance between developer interests and affected residents
  • Definition ambiguity: Without seeing the full bill text, the specific criteria for "applicability" and waiver eligibility are unclear—broad waivers could bypass important public interest reviews, while narrow ones may be ineffective

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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