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Bill

Bill

HB 1338

Public Utilities - Certificates of Public Convenience and Necessity - Energy Storage Devices

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Kris Valderrama

Maryland bill streamlines approval process for energy storage devices to accelerate deployment while potentially reducing regulatory oversight of battery and storage infrastructure projects.

Hearing 2/21 at 1:00 p.m.
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Bill Summary · HB 1338

Legislative bill overview

HB 1338 modifies Maryland's regulatory framework for energy storage devices by streamlining the process for obtaining Certificates of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCNs). The bill appears designed to reduce regulatory barriers for deploying battery storage and other energy storage systems, which are increasingly important for grid stability and renewable energy integration.

Why is this important

Energy storage is critical infrastructure for modern electricity systems, particularly as Maryland transitions toward renewable energy sources. Removing unnecessary regulatory hurdles can accelerate deployment of storage technology, potentially lowering costs for consumers and improving grid reliability. Conversely, CPCNs exist to protect public interests, so reducing oversight requirements carries tradeoffs worth examining.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory oversight reduction: Streamlining CPCN requirements may decrease public input opportunities and regulatory scrutiny of large storage projects, raising concerns about environmental review and community impact assessment.
  • Utility company advantage: Exempting or expediting storage projects for certain entities could create competitive advantages for larger utilities over independent developers, affecting market structure.
  • Grid safety standards: Faster approval timelines might compress technical safety reviews, though this depends on specific bill language not yet publicly detailed.

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

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