Governors' Wind Energy Coalition

For the third time in as many years, Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley (D) is trying to lure companies to invest in offshore wind energy development in the state’s waters.

The proposed measure would require electricity suppliers to buy offshore renewable energy credits, providing incentives for companies to invest in offshore wind.

The state Legislature appears to be more receptive to the legislation this year after a watered-down version of the bill passed the state House last year but didn’t make it to a Senate vote.

The plan would increase monthly electricity bills up to $1.50 for ratepayers and 1.5 percent for nonresidential ratepayers. If approved, the plan would go into effect no earlier than 2017 (Brian Witte, AP/Wilmington [Del.] News-Journal, Jan. 23).