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NextEra MARL Transmission Lines Updates



March 13, 2026


What you should know:


NextEra has “officially” announced its proposed route for the MARL Transmission lines and has submitted its CPCN Application with the Maryland PSC. The dark purple lines represent the proposed route, and the light purple lines are alternative routes. These routes may differ from previously published routes, so examine them carefully.


An interactive map is available on the NextEra Energy site here.



NextEra filed its CPCN (Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity) Application with the Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC) on January 31, 2026.


The MARL line is not a “done deal.”

The proposed route must first be approved by the Maryland PSC. If you oppose the proposed route, this will be your chance to submit public feedback to the PSC through the intervenor and/or public comments process. More info on exactly how you can support or oppose the lines and make your voice heard is coming soon! Preliminary information can be found here. Note there are 3 tabs (template, guidelines, and useful links). You can copy/paste the content and update it for your own use.

The summary below is directly from the stopmprp.com website. This group is about a year ahead of Western Maryland in the fight against downstate transmission lines. They have amassed a wealth of valuable information.


Here’s a simplified overview of how the CPCN approval process works after an application is filed:


Note: All dates are speculative. Estimates are based on past projects and information available.


Proceeding Initiation

  • The Maryland PSC reviews the NextEra application for completeness.

  • Public notices are issued, and the applicant must ensure notices are published online, in newspapers, and on social media.

  • Public comment hearings are scheduled.

Public Participation

  • Interested parties can file petitions to intervene or submit public comments, either orally during hearings or in writing.

  • The intervenor deadline is April 3, 2026. More info to follow about this.

  • Public hearings may be held in person or virtually and are recorded.

Hearings and Decision

  • Pre-Hearing Conference: Schedules are set for testimony and evidentiary hearings.

  • Evidentiary Hearing: Witnesses present evidence, and parties can cross-examine.

  • Post-Hearing Process: Decisions may involve a proposed order (appealable to the PSC) or a final PSC order. Judicial reviews can be sought in circuit courts.


Decision Timeline

  • Decisions are generally rendered within 365 days of the filing of a complete application.

For participation, individuals and entities can:

  • File motions to intervene as a party.

  • Register as an "interested person" to receive updates.

  • File public comments online or via mail​

This resource from STOP MPRP provides info on how the public can be involved and submit testimony/public comments once the application has been filed (we'll keep you informed!).




Your County Commissioners and State Representatives

can now be contacted with feedback on the MARL Transmission lines.

More details, including talking points, contact info, & guidelines, will be posted here on the EMM website soon.


Volunteer

Western Maryland’s beautiful county, neighborhoods, farmlands, wildlands, and forests should not be compromised in the name of progress. Should you or someone you know have the time and desire to help EMM organize and communicate opposition to the approval of the MARL Transmission lines...


We’d love to have you.



USEFUL RESOURCES

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