Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity - Overhead Transmission Lines - Conservation Easements

SB 34 requires the Maryland Public Service Commission to consider conservation easements when reviewing applications for overhead transmission line projects. Specifically, it mandates that applicants must evaluate alternative routes to avoid properties with existing conservation easements or minimize impacts on those properties. The bill also requires applicants to provide detailed cost analyses and justification for rejected alternative routes. This directly affects utility companies seeking permits and landowners with conservation easements on proposed transmission line paths, amending existing review procedures under Maryland law.