Maryland Must Act Now to Secure Reliable Energy Future

Maryland faces significant challenges in securing a reliable energy future, as the state continues to promote ambitious goals for innovation, climate action, and economic growth. Despite these aspirations, there is a critical gap in the infrastructure needed to deliver the energy necessary to fulfill these promises. A growing sense of urgency underscores the need for concrete action rather than reliance on external sources and optimistic projections.

Delaware has taken a proactive step by launching a Nuclear Energy Feasibility Task Force, recognizing that sustainable energy solutions are essential for attracting businesses and ensuring grid reliability. This initiative highlights a contrast with Maryland, which has a wealth of resources at its disposal, including the Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Power Plant. This facility, along with several retired coal plant sites, presents an opportunity for the state to develop a robust energy infrastructure capable of supporting its economic ambitions.

Maryland’s current energy strategy appears to prioritize political gains over long-term planning. There is no clear integrated resource plan or capacity roadmap, leading to short-term decisions that may increase costs for residents while compromising reliability. As energy demand rises—particularly from sectors like artificial intelligence and data management—the state must address the growing concerns about its energy framework.

The potential for innovation exists in the form of hybrid gas-nuclear facilities, which could mitigate intermittency issues while paving the way for a more extensive nuclear energy rollout. Companies like One Nuclear, Oklo, and Kairos are eager to partner with Maryland to advance these initiatives. The state has the unique opportunity to harness this momentum, yet it remains stalled by an apparent reluctance to embrace nuclear energy.

Concerns about nuclear power often stem from public fear; however, the real danger lies in failing to secure a stable energy supply. In scenarios where hospitals are uncertain about power availability during extreme weather or data centers consider relocating due to infrastructure deficiencies, the implications are dire. The PJM Interconnection, which manages the electric grid for Maryland and surrounding states, has issued warnings regarding tightening supply, emphasizing the need for immediate action.

To address these challenges, Maryland should establish a statewide Nuclear and Firm Power Task Force to prioritize existing sites such as Calvert Cliffs, Brandon Shores, and Dickerson. Engaging local communities in the planning process is vital; residents are not the adversaries but rather the stakeholders who will benefit from a reliable energy infrastructure.

In conclusion, Maryland’s ambitions for climate goals and technological advancements cannot be met without the necessary energy resources. The state must transition from a mindset of denial to one of proactive engagement. The time to act is now, as the only thing more perilous than the difficulty of developing new energy sources is the illusion that Maryland can continue without them. With decisive leadership, the state can build a pathway to a sustainable energy future.

Mark A. Aitken, a resident of Parkton and senior vice president of advanced technology at Sinclair Broadcast Group, emphasizes the importance of addressing these issues head-on to ensure Maryland’s energy resilience and economic growth.