Just Say 'No' to Re-Monopolizing Maryland

Promising news today for Maryland’s electricity customers. Dereck Davis, the House of Delegates chair of the Economic Matters Committee, will vote against any proposals to re-monopolize Maryland’s electricity industry, according to a report in the Maryland Gazette. The paper quotes him as vowing to prevent the issue from consuming his panel’s work in the 2010 General Assembly.

Davis made his comments two months before the session is scheduled to start — setting the tone for a debate that is sure to resurface. Davis’ decision, based on months of listening and reviewing testimony as well as analysis of the issue, was not made lightly. He points to important signs that competitive electricity markets are delivering benefits to consumers, including a recent sharp decline in wholesale energy prices (which are leading to lower residential rates), new generation plants in the making, and more outside power suppliers competing for Marylanders’ electric business. He also points to smart energy meters and other conservation initiatives as measures that can help reduce ratepayers’ bills -- programs that are well underway and can continue to thrive in an organized market.

The COMPETE Coalition commends Chairman Davis for his thoughtful and pragmatic approach to the issue, and for his recognition of the benefits that a competitive market brings to consumers.

Joel Malina | November 6, 2009