Maryland General Assembly Passes Utility RELIEF Act to Boost Solar Energy and Lower Electricity Costs
The Maryland General Assembly has passed the Utility RELIEF Act, a significant piece of legislation aimed at reducing electricity costs for residents by expanding solar energy initiatives. The bill, which now awaits the signature of Governor Wes Moore, seeks to double the state's net metering program from 3 GW to 6 GW. This expansion is intended to promote the use of rooftop and community solar, providing Marylanders with more control over their energy production and costs. Solar trade groups have expressed strong support for the bill, highlighting its potential to provide regulatory certainty and encourage investment in solar projects. The act is seen as a strategic move to address rising electricity bills by leveraging local, distributed solar and storage solutions.