Opposition to the Maryland Piedmont Reliability Project MPRP is intensifying, with residents and local organizations continuing to voice concerns over the proposed 70-mile high-voltage power line.
At a public information session hosted by Public Service Enterprise Group PSEG in Hunt Valley on November 12, 2024, nearly 350 attendees turned their frustration toward PSEG’s presentation, which they felt monopolized the meeting time.
The crowd successfully demanded a shift toward open questions, disrupting the presentation. Brenda Myers, a Hampstead resident, led the charge, expressing dissatisfaction with the format and calling for direct engagement.
Opponents, including the grassroots organization Stop MPRP, are particularly concerned about the potential use of eminent domain, which could lead to the seizure of private property to facilitate the project.
The MPRP is being criticized by local officials in Baltimore, Carroll, and Frederick Counties, who argue the power line could negatively impact their communities.
Despite the widespread opposition, PSEG continues to push forward, planning to submit a development application to the Maryland Public Service Commission by the end of the year.
Activists are also calling for action from Governor Wes Moore, questioning his stance on the project and his silence on the use of eminent domain. Residents have also expressed frustration over PSEG’s $10,000 contribution to Moore’s political campaign, suggesting a potential conflict of interest.
In the political sphere, there are hopes that President-elect Donald Trump, known for his stance on energy policies, could intervene to halt the project. Trump’s previous promises to cut green energy subsidies may align with the concerns of Maryland residents who feel the project could harm their state’s energy landscape.
Despite these tensions, PSEG emphasizes the need for the project to meet Maryland’s increasing energy demands, noting that the state imports nearly 40% of its power, a figure expected to grow significantly in the coming years. However, residents remain unconvinced and are pushing for state and federal intervention to prevent the power line’s development.