Maryland Piedmont Reliability Project
UPDATE: The preferred route has been chosen for this project. Click here for an interactive map showing the current proposed location of the power line.
The Maryland Piedmont Reliability Project (MPRP) is a critical system (grid) enhancement (update) that has been awarded to Public Service Enterprise Group (PSEG) by PJM, the Regional Transmission Organization (RTO) responsible for operating and planning the regional electric grid in all or parts of thirteen states, including Maryland.
The MPRP is a 500,000-volt (500 kV) transmission line designed to respond to growing electric needs in Maryland and the surrounding region. Transmission reliability is key to supporting Maryland’s energy future.
The approximately 70-mile proposed transmission route spans three counties, westward from the connection point within the existing Baltimore Gas & Electric transmission line right-of-way in northern Baltimore County, through Carroll County, and into the existing Doubs 500kV Station in southern Frederick County.
The current project seems to be driven in large part by the electricity needs of proposed data centers in Frederick County and northern Virginia. We all recognize that electricity demand is growing rapidly, with the move away from fossil fuel for transportation and residential and commercial HVAC use. However, this project appears to be moving forward across environmentally sensitive areas and private property without allowing time for significant input from environmental groups or affected residents.
There are several ways you can get involved. We will try to provide major updates on this page as they become available. Also, a group of concerned citizens from Baltimore, Carroll and Frederick Counties have formed Stop MPRP. Their website updates almost daily, and provides information on how you can help. The most effective way is to make your voice heard, by showing up at meetings and writing letters to your city, county, state and federal legislators. You are also encouraged to write the Maryland Public Service Commission at piedmontcomments.psc@maryland.gov. Be sure your neighbors and friends are aware of the project, and encourage them to make their voices heard as well.
For the latest news and updates on the progress of this project, please check the Stop MPRP website.
Proposed Solar Facility in Rocky Ridge
Chaberton Energy, a company based in Rockville, has proposed a five-megawatt solar facility to be built near Thurmont, MD. If you would like to comment on this proposal, use the Public Service Commission’s “e-file” system for filing. Instructions for e-filing are found under the “Tools” section of the Commission’s website under the “Make a Public Comment” tab, which can be accessed via the following link: https://www.psc.state.md.us/make-a-public-comment/
Carroll County Proposed Solar Energy Projects
There are seven solar projects currently under review by the Maryland Power Plant Research Program. Per an article in the Carroll County Times, the projects are located throughout the county in the following locations:
- Old Westminster Road, Westminster
- Sullivan Road, Westminster
- Littlestown Pike, Westminster
- Fannie Dorsey Road, Sykesville (2 projects)
- Pleasant Valley Road, Westminster
- Cape Horn Road, Hampstead
If you are interested in these projects, contact the Maryland Public Service Commission.
Carroll County Public Hearing on Developer Agreements
Carroll County Commissioners will schedule a public hearing to discuss the possible use of Developer Rights and Responsibility Agreements (DRRA) for large-scale development projects. Check the Carroll County Government website -- Upcoming Meetings, Agendas, and Public Hearings page. Read a draft of the Ordinance here.
To see an article in the Carroll County Times, click here.