The Maryland Piedmont Reliability Project is the first of several transmission line projects across Maryland that aim to bolster the reliability of the state’s power grid. The lines are part of a plan developed by PJM to provide reliability and alleviate congestion to support affordability for Maryland’s electricity consumers.

Why is the project needed?

Maryland relies heavily on imported electricity—with approximately 40% of its power sourced from out-of-state providers. The state currently does not generate enough electricity to meet its own demand, depending on neighboring states like Pennsylvania that produce surplus energy.

The challenge is growing. As coal-fired power plants such as Brandon Shores retire, Maryland’s energy deficit is expected to widen. Without new infrastructure, the state risks falling further behind in its ability to meet demand.

Transmission capacity is critical. If Maryland doesn’t expand its ability to import electricity, the grid is projected to become more congested and, ultimately overloaded. This threatens both the affordability and reliability of energy—raising costs and increasing the risk of rolling blackouts.

A solution is underway. PJM, the federally approved regional transmission organization (RTO) responsible for managing electricity flow across the region, has identified two urgent needs driving this project: rising electricity demand and the retirement of key generators. In response, PSEG is constructing a new transmission line to ensure Maryland’s power remains reliable, resilient, and accessible.

The following files offer more insight into the need for the project, benefits to Marylanders and the ongoing approval process.

• Public Service Community Commitments – Learn about PSEG’s commitments to the people of Maryland.
• Benefits of the MPRP – Learn more about the benefits, direct and indirect, of the MPRP to Marylanders.
• Real Estate Process & Permitted Uses -Learn about the real estate process and permitted uses in the right of way of a transmission line.
• PJM – A Needed Project That Benefits Marylanders – Read PJM’s statement on why the project is needed and the benefits to Marylanders.
• PJM – Maryland Needs Energy Infrastructure – PJM’s fact sheet on Maryland’s current energy landscape.
• PJM on Maryland Energy – Learn more on the impact of markets on Maryland’s energy outlook.