Maryland Advocate Urges Enhanced Oversight of Rising Transmission Costs Amid Data Center Demand

Maryland's ratepayer advocate has called for increased regulatory scrutiny of transmission projects as costs rise due to data centers driving load growth. Ratepayers could face $5.4 billion in transmission costs over five years starting in 2031. The Maryland Office of People's Counsel highlights that 59% of these costs are for baseline reliability projects. The report suggests that data centers should bear their own transmission costs, and it proposes various policy changes for better oversight and cost management.

Published Mar 25, 2026

Maryland's ratepayer advocate is advocating for greater oversight of rising transmission costs, projected at $5.4 billion over five years from 2031. This contrasts with the $7.1 billion spent on transmission over the last 20 years.

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The Maryland Office of People's Counsel states that 59% of future costs are for baseline reliability projects. The report indicates that data centers, which are significantly contributing to load growth, should be responsible for their own transmission expenses.

Additionally, it recommends tighter oversight of transmission planning by the Maryland Public Service Commission and PJM, including cost-benefit analyses and the introduction of an independent transmission monitor. Enhanced transparency and support for advanced transmission technologies are also advised.