Public Utilities - Off-Grid Electricity Providers - Exemption

SB 26 exempts qualifying off-grid electricity providers from most public utility regulations in Maryland, directly affecting small-scale generators (like remote homes or farms) that meet three criteria: they don’t connect to the state grid, cross state lines, or operate on public roads. The bill allows these providers to avoid standard utility rules but requires compliance with specific construction permit requirements (§§ 7-207 and 7-207.1) when building facilities. If a provider later connects to the grid, crosses state lines, or operates on public roads, they lose the exemption and must follow full utility regulations. The exemption applies only to providers starting operations on or after October 1, 2026.