GET(S) with the (Energy Efficiency) Program!

Promoting Advanced Transmission Technologies

Wouldn’t it be great to get more electricity from our existing power lines? It would mean we wouldn’t need to build as many new power plants and lines to meet rising demand for electricity.

Turns out we can by using advanced transmission technologies (ATTs) and “grid-enhancing technologies” (GETs). 

What are ATTs and GETs?

Advanced transmission technologies (ATTs) are a suite of tools that can quickly and cost-effectively increase the capacity of the existing electrical grid without building new transmission lines. These typically encompass grid-enhancing technologies (GETs) –– hardware and software solutions that can be deployed on the existing system and essentially act as energy efficiency for the grid –– and advanced conductors. 

By increasing and optimizing the capacity of lines already in place, the grid can transmit more electricity without the lengthy planning and permitting process required for new transmission lines. Adding ATTs to lines being constructed, ensures that all new lines being built are as efficient as possible, thus decreasing the need for more lines and ensuring the best use of rate-payer dollars. While construction of new transmission lines will still be needed to support projected increased demand, ATTs ensure maximized efficiency from current and future grid investments. 

Image courtesy of RMI. For more info: rmi.org

Promoting ATTs in Maryland and All Over the South

My legislation to better integrate these technologies into Maryland’s transmission planning and permitting was incorporated into last year’s Utility Relief Act—a win for Maryland ratepayers and the climate!

Last month, as the Maryland House representative to the Southern States Energy Board (SSEB), my resolution to promote implementation of ATTs passed unanimously at SSEB’s annual meeting in Biloxi. Increasing understanding of and institutional support for ATTs is important as we seek to integrate them into transmission planning and development across the country. 

Some of the many plants that can be foraged in Maryland. Photos courtesy of Tierney Acosta.

Progress on Foraging Opportunities in Maryland 

Ensuring opportunities for responsible food foraging is an important part of supporting a resilient and equitable food system. Food foraging creates opportunities to access fresh, nutritious, seasonal foods grown in the wild. When done responsibly, it is sustainable and connects us with our ecosystems in a delightful way!

During the previous two Sessions, I have introduced legislation to allow foraging opportunities on Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) land, which is currently prohibited.  I am grateful to many of you for your advocacy efforts and testimony.  While the legislation has not passed, it has given me a chance to engage with DNR to discuss the value and importance of foraging. 

And it worked!  DNR Secretary Josh Kurtz recently sent me a letter indicating that as a result of our efforts: “Following a thorough review, the Department has decided to update its regulations to permit members of the public to gather natural items on state land for personal consumption, at the Department’s discretion. I believe this update will foster a deeper connection to Maryland's natural resources while ensuring sustainable management practices remain in place.” This means that DNR will change their regulations to allow foraging, even without having to pass a bill. 

Until these new regulations are in place, I will continue to work closely with DNR and will let you know when we can go foraging together!

Check out my Latest Podcast on the WARMTH Act

I sat down with Tanushree Dutta Isaacman from Action in Montgomery and Joelle Novey from Interfaith Power and Light to talk about the network geothermal pilot and the intersection of climate and housing justice. Check it out here.

Flipping Seats, Fighting MAGA

We continue our efforts around Maryland to re-elect my colleagues and flip seats in battleground states. We are also working to educate voters that voting Yes on Question 3 is a vote to fight MAGA and Trump. We will be traveling to Pennsylvania to flip the US House. Join us! 

Have Voting Questions?

The Maryland State Board of Elections official website has your answers!

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Need Help with a State Issue?

If you need help with a state issue, please contact my office at Lorig.Charkoudian@house.maryland.gov or leave us a message at (410)-841-3423.

Onward, 

Lorig Charkoudian