Statement from Governor Martin O'Malley in Support of President Obama's Smart Grid Technology Grants
ANNAPOLIS, MD (October 27, 2009) –Governor Martin O'Malley issued this statement today following President Obama’s announcement of a $304.8 million investment in Smart Grid technology in Maryland through Baltimore Gas and Electric (BGE) and Potomac Electric Power Company (PEPCo) as part of a $3.4 billion total investment in Smart Grid technology across the Nation.
“I want to thank President Obama for his support of our efforts to lead by example and create energy solutions for our families and workers. Smart Grid technology will create new jobs, help Marylanders reduce their energy bills, improve system reliability and support EmPOWER Maryland, one of the most ambitious energy goals in the nation to reduce electricity use 15 percent statewide by 2015.
“Maryland is committed to being Smart, Green and Growing in all our energy efforts. President Obama’s recognition and support of our strides towards a Smart Grid system for our families keeps us at the forefront of our energy goals.”
Today’s $3.4 billion investment is the largest single Smart Grid modernization investment in American history, funding a broad range of projects that will ease the nation’s transition to a smarter, stronger, more efficient and reliable energy infrastructure. Funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, today’s $3.4 billion will be matched by industry funding for a total public-private investment worth over $8 billion.
Maryland continues to be recognized as a national leader in progressive energy efficiency and clean energy advancements, working to reduce per capita and peak demand power consumption 15 percebt by 2015 under EmPOWER Maryland, while also making strides towards Maryland’s aggressive, yet attainable Renewable Portfolio Standard of 20 percent clean energy in use in Maryland by 2022.
