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HB 829

Public Utilities - Transmission Lines - Advanced Transmission Technologies

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Lorig Charkoudian

Maryland requires utility regulators to establish standards for advanced transmission technologies that boost grid capacity without new construction, supporting renewable energy integration.

Hearing 3/26 at 1:00 p.m.
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Bill Summary · HB 829

Legislative bill overview

HB 829 requires Maryland's Public Service Commission to establish standards and regulations for advanced transmission technologies (such as high-temperature superconducting cables and dynamic line rating systems) that can increase power transmission capacity without requiring new physical infrastructure. The bill aims to modernize the state's electrical grid and facilitate the integration of renewable energy sources by allowing utilities to deploy efficiency-enhancing technologies on existing transmission corridors.

Why is this important

Maryland's aging grid infrastructure struggles to accommodate growing electricity demand and distributed renewable energy sources. Advanced transmission technologies could defer or eliminate expensive new transmission line construction, reducing environmental disruption, cost burdens on ratepayers, and project development timelines. This positions the state to meet clean energy goals while improving grid reliability and reducing infrastructure strain.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory clarity and cost allocation: The bill leaves specifics to the PSC, creating uncertainty about which technologies qualify, approval timelines, and how costs are divided between utilities and ratepayers
  • Utility financial incentives: Unclear whether utilities have adequate financial incentives to invest in these technologies versus building new infrastructure that generates higher returns under current rate structures
  • Grid reliability standards: Advanced technologies operate under different parameters than conventional infrastructure; safety, maintenance, and performance standards may need extensive development and testing before deployment

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

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