Advanced Energy United Testifies for a Smarter, More Affordable Grid in Maryland

Today, Maryland legislators had a critical opportunity to address the state’s affordability crisis head-on. The House Economic Matters Committee discussed the Affordable Grid Act (HB 1225/SB 908), and Advanced Energy United’s Katie Mettle testified as an industry expert to explain how the bill works and highlight why it's a common-sense, proactive solution to rising energy costs and the state’s evolving energy needs.

This legislation, championed by Delegate Lily Qi and Senator Katie Fry Hester, is designed to ensure utilities plan ahead to manage Maryland’s increasing energy demand—especially as more residents and businesses adopt electric vehicles, heat pumps, and clean energy technologies. The Public Service Commission (PSC) would be tasked with implementing new long-term distribution system planning requirements, ensuring the state’s electric grid is upgraded efficiently, equitably, and affordably. 

Below is an excerpt from Mettle's testimony.

A Plan for Affordability and Reliability 

At a time when Marylanders are feeling the pressure of rising costs, HB 1225/SB 908 lays out a path to avoid unnecessary rate hikes while improving grid reliability and resilience.  

The bill ensures: 

• Better Planning – Utilities will use localized forecasting to anticipate where and when grid upgrades are needed, preventing costly, reactive investments. 

• Cost Savings – The legislation prioritizes upgrades that will minimize ratepayer spending on electricity delivery costs. 

• Grid Readiness for Electrification – As Maryland moves toward cleaner transportation and buildings, the state must ensure that charging stations, heat pumps, and solar installations are supported by a strong, modernized grid. 

• Smart Infrastructure Investments – By requiring gas and electric utilities to coordinate, this bill prevents unnecessary spending on outdated infrastructure and ensures every dollar is spent wisely.  

Advanced Energy United is proud to support this bill and will continue working alongside policymakers to make Maryland’s grid smarter, cleaner, and more affordable for all.