Maryland’s Renewable Energy Program: More Smoke and Mirrors Than Wind and Solar, New Report Alleges – InsideClimate News

Maryland’s Clean Energy Ambitions: A Report on the State’s Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS)

Introduction

Maryland’s clean energy ambitions are facing significant challenges due to policy missteps, according to a new report by Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility (PEER), a national nonprofit organization. The state’s Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS), established 19 years ago, was intended to transform Maryland’s energy system by replacing fossil fuel sources with renewable electricity. However, the RPS has hindered the growth of the renewable energy sector, impeded the transition to fossil-free electricity, and resulted in billions of dollars in public subsidies being funneled to out-of-state energy producers.

The Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS)

The RPS law set targets for Maryland’s renewable electricity supply, aiming for 32.6 percent by 2024 and 52.5 percent by 2030. However, as of 2022, only about 7 percent of the state’s electricity needs were met by noncombustible renewable sources. The latest update from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) reported that renewable energy generation accounted for 13 percent of Maryland’s total in-state electricity in 2023, with solar power contributing almost half of the state’s renewable electricity generation. Despite this progress, the state is far from achieving its goal of obtaining over 50 percent of its electricity from renewable sources as defined in its RPS.

The Problems with Maryland’s RPS

PEER’s analysis highlights several flaws in Maryland’s RPS. One major issue is the poorly defined Renewable Energy Certificate (REC) system, which allows energy providers to meet their renewable energy requirements by purchasing unbundled RECs instead of actual renewable energy. This has resulted in out-of-state energy producers benefiting from Maryland ratepayers’ subsidies, with little investment in local renewable energy projects. Furthermore, the inclusion of polluting energy sources like municipal waste incineration and biomass in Maryland’s RPS undermines the state’s climate goals.

Recommendations for Reform

PEER recommends overhauling Maryland’s RPS to ensure that ratepayer money directly supports new clean energy projects. Mandating power purchase agreements for renewable energy would guarantee that ratepayer funds are used to promote clean energy development. Stricter rules for REC eligibility, such as subsidy limits and requirements for newer projects, would redirect funds towards initiatives that benefit Maryland communities. Additionally, regional collaboration with neighboring states could address inefficiencies and foster strategic investments in shared renewable infrastructure, maximizing both climate and economic gains.

Conclusion

Maryland’s clean energy ambitions are at risk due to the shortcomings of its Renewable Portfolio Standard. The state must address the flaws in its REC system, prioritize investments in local renewable energy projects, and eliminate the inclusion of polluting energy sources. By implementing the recommended reforms, Maryland can make significant progress towards its climate goals while ensuring a sustainable and equitable energy future.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

• SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
• SDG 13: Climate Action
• SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

• SDG 7.2: Increase the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix
• SDG 7.3: Double the global rate of improvement in energy efficiency
• SDG 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning
• SDG 17.16: Enhance the global partnership for sustainable development

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

• Percentage of renewable electricity supply in Maryland (indicator for SDG 7.2)
• Percentage of electricity needs met by noncombustible renewable sources in Maryland (indicator for SDG 7.2)
• Amount of subsidies paid by Maryland ratepayers for renewable energy (indicator for SDG 17.16)

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: insideclimatenews.org