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MARYLAND ENERGY ADMINISTRATION

ORIGIN & FUNCTIONS

[photo, 1623 Forest Drive (entrance), Annapolis, Maryland] Maryland Energy Administration, 1623 Forest Drive (entrance), Annapolis, Maryland, October 2000. Photo by Diane F. Evartt.
Origins of the Maryland Energy Administration trace to 1973 when the Governor by Executive Order formed the Office of Energy Policy. Two years later, the Energy and Coastal Zone Administration was established by the Department of Natural Resources in 1975, and by law in 1976 (Chapter 320, Acts of 1976). The Administration reorganized in 1979 as the Energy Administration. In 1982, it reformed as the Energy Office. The Office transferred to the Department of Housing and Community Development from the Department of Natural Resources in 1987 (Chapter 311, Acts of 1987). The Office was abolished in 1991 when the Maryland Energy Administration was created as an independent agency (Chapter 468, Acts of 1991).

The Maryland Energy Administration works to maximize energy efficiency in Maryland, reduce reliance on foreign fuel, and improve the environment. The Administration coordinates and directs energy planning for State agencies, and helps local governments implement programs to reduce energy consumption. In addition, the Administration helps Maryland businesses become more competitive by introducing new technologies and developing strategies for emerging competitive energy markets.

During energy supply disruptions and emergencies, the Administration is responsible for fuel allocations and contingency planning. It is the lead agency for implementing alternative fuel policy (National Energy Policy Act of 1992). In Maryland, the Administration also conducts the federal Institutional Conservation Program, certain oil overcharge projects, and other programs established by the 1992 federal act.

The Director of the Administration is appointed by the Governor (Code 1957, Art. 41, secs. 10-701 through 10-705).

ENERGY PERFORMANCE CONTRACTING

For infrastructure improvements, training, and maintenance, Energy Performance Contracting arranges private financing to State and local government agencies. The savings realized from energy upgrades are used to service the debt arranged through the Energy Performance Contract agreement.

HOMELAND SECURITY & EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

The Maryland Energy Administration participates in security planning for Maryland's energy supplies and infrastructure. To minimize energy supply shortages resulting from natural disaster or terrorist action, it participates in emergency preparedness training and may set aside petroleum fuels in an emergency. For power plants, transmission lines, substations, pipelines for natural gas and petroleum, and storage facilities, the Administration works with federal, regional and State authorities to develop protection plans.

INDUSTRIAL PROGRAMS

To Maryland businesses, Industrial Programs provides information and education about proven technologies and best practices for energy efficiency. Through the Industries of the Future Program, industries, universities, and private organizations are encouraged to develop new technolgies that prevent pollution, renew energy, and use energy efficiently.

TRANSPORTATION PROGRAMS

Transportation Programs works to reduce fuel consumption through programs that promote the use of alternative fuel vehicles and energy efficiency in transportation. With other State and federal agencies and private associations, the office encourages the use of low-emission vehicles and development of alternative fuels.

RESIDENTIAL PROGRAMS

Residential Programs promotes energy efficiency in homes. It educates consumers about energy efficient products through the Energy Star Program. It also works with heating and air conditioning contractors to size and install energy-efficient equipment in homes.

STATE & LOCAL GOVERNMENT PROGRAMS

To promote the efficient use of energy, the Administration works with State and local government agencies. It promotes the use of energy performance contracts, and administers the State Agency Loan Program, the Community Energy Loan Program, and the Maryland Solar Schools Program. The Administration also carefully reviews new construction and renovation plans for government buildings.

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