Vol74-8 August 2024

Governor signs executive order to implement greenhouse gas reduction goals

In 2021, the Maryland General Assembly adopted the most ambitious greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction goals in the country when they passed the Climate Solutions Now Act of 2022. This law sets a goal to reduce GHG emissions in Maryland 60 percent by 2031 from the baseline year of 2006, and to reach “net zero” carbon emissions by 2045. Reaching these goals will impact every part of Maryland’s economy and will require a collaborative and determined effort throughout the state. While the specifics of how these goals are to be reached have not been fully determined for SMECO and other utilities, ratepayers should expect an impact on their electric bill over the next several years. SMECO’s mission is to provide safe, reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity that exceeds our members’ expectations. Your cooperative will continue to advocate on our members’ behalf as this law is implemented.

The Climate Pollution Reduction Plan was written by the Maryland Department of Environment to serve as a roadmap to achieving these climate change goals, and on June 4, 2024, Governor Wes Moore signed an executive order to implement the plan.