Intervention Demonstrates Opposition to the Maryland Piedmont Reliability Project
Today, County Executive Jessica Fitzwater announced Frederick County will petition to intervene in the Maryland Public Service Commission’s (“PSC”) consideration of PSEG Renewable Transmission’s application for a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (“CPCN”) for authority to construct the Maryland Piedmont Reliability Project (“MPRP”).
“Frederick County totally opposes MPRP, and our decision to intervene should send a clear message that we will use the legal tools at our disposal to protect our community,” said County Executive Fitzwater. “While the law is clear that Frederick County does not have the authority to stop MPRP ourselves, we will continue to work with our partners on the County Council to amplify our residents’ voices and advocate against the project.”
On December 19, 2024, the County Executive’s Office asked to brief the County Council on the possibility of intervening in this matter. The Council scheduled a briefing for tonight’s meeting, which starts at 5:30 p.m. On December 31, PSEG Renewable Transmission filed its CPCN application, and, on January 10, 2025, the PSC set a February 17 deadline to petition to intervene.
On December 9, 2024, the PSC responded to a letter from the County Executive and Council and indicated it will hold a public hearing in Frederick County, which will provide another opportunity for residents to be heard on this matter.
The details of that hearing will be posted to www.frederickcountymd.gov/mprp when they are available. County officials urge residents to check this site regularly for facts related to the potential impact of MPRP to County assets, project timelines and details, letters sent to and received by County officials, and video of the County’s October 9, 2024, public meeting. The County will update the page as more information is available.