Commentary: Maryland Policy Changes Could Increase Energy Costs and Grid Strain
A guest commentary argues that proposed changes to Maryland’s building energy code and cuts to the EmPOWER efficiency program could raise electricity costs and increase strain on the regional grid. The writer says data centers are contributing to demand growth and should be required to help pay for their energy impacts.
Architect Tom Nyein argues that Maryland policymakers are weakening measures intended to improve energy affordability and protect the electric grid. He criticizes proposed Maryland Department of Labor amendments to the 2024 International Energy Conservation Code that would remove on-site renewable-energy requirements for large commercial buildings, including data centers, and reduce efficiency requirements for some new apartments.
Nyein also opposes proposed reductions to Maryland’s EmPOWER energy-efficiency program, saying the cuts could increase customer bills and peak demand. He cites Gov. Wes Moore’s pledge to hold data centers accountable for their energy needs and says stronger building standards and energy-efficiency investments are necessary to ensure data centers pay their share of grid-related costs.