Republican Gov. Larry Hogan’s pledge to cut taxes and fees has spurred his administration to step back from two of Maryland’s main efforts to clear the air of pollution.
In the face of efforts by environmentalists, consumer advocates and utilities, the administration is opposing plans to expand an initiative that encourages state residents and businesses to use less electricity. And the governor vetoed a bill that sought to increase Maryland’s use of renewable energy sources.
In each case, Hogan argues that while he wants cleaner air, the state cannot ask residents and businesses to further bankroll the effort. Utility customers pay monthly surcharges that Baltimore Gas and Electric Co. and others use to promote energy efficiency, and renewable sources such as wind and solar power are more expensive than energy from fossil fuels.
Click here to read the rest of the article written by Scott Dance over at Baltimore Sun