Commentary: Rising energy costs demand action in Maryland

Marylanders are increasingly feeling the strain of rising energy costs, a challenge compounded by growing electricity demand, slow permitting processes and the rapid retirement of older power plants. At our recent Policy Forum for Maryland’s Future event, leaders warned that without faster action to expand energy supply, modernize infrastructure and streamline project approvals, families and businesses will continue to face higher utility bills and reduced competitiveness.

While renewable energy is essential to the state’s long-term goals, delays and intermittency mean it cannot meet near-term needs alone, making natural gas a necessary part of a balanced approach to reliability and affordability. With grid operators and federal regulators signaling mounting strain nationwide, Maryland must accelerate an all-of-the-above energy strategy to ensure the state remains affordable, economically strong and an attractive place to live and invest.

Read a commentary piece from Maryland Chamber President & CEO Mary D. Kane on the issues facing Maryland's energy landscape. Article first published in The Baltimore Sun on Dec. 6, 2025.