ANNAPOLIS, MD—The Maryland Freedom Caucus is claiming a victory in its fight against potential blackouts, announcing that the U.S. Department of Energy has approved PJM’s emergency request to keep Wagner Unit 4 online to protect grid reliability across the state.
The caucus said the decision comes weeks after they sent a letter to Energy Secretary Chris Wright and President Donald J. Trump, urging action under Section 202(c) of the Federal Power Act to prevent blackouts stemming from what they call premature power plant closures.
“This is a clear win for common sense and a validation of our months-long effort to expose the looming energy crisis caused by Governor Moore’s green energy extremism,” said Delegate Brian Chisholm, a Maryland Freedom Caucus member. “Secretary Wright’s order keeps the lights on — but this must be the beginning, not the end, of reform.”
Delegate Mark Fisher added, “The Maryland Freedom Caucus is offering solutions that lower prices and stop blackouts. Governor Moore’s extremist policies are wrecking the economy.”
The caucus stated it has been raising concerns since February, warning that the shutdown of Brandon Shores and the deactivation of Wagner would destabilize the grid, increase reliance on imported electricity, and raise costs. They contend that the recent actions by PJM and the Department of Energy confirm their warnings.
While acknowledging that keeping Wagner Unit 4 online is a temporary measure, the Maryland Freedom Caucus is now urging immediate action from Governor Wes Moore. In a letter sent to the governor, the caucus outlined several demands:
- Suspend state energy mandates that they claim are driving the closure of reliable plants like Brandon Shores and Wagner.
- Halt the EmPOWER program fees, which they say burden ratepayers without improving grid reliability.
- Repower closed facilities, including converting Warrior Run to natural gas.
- Include nuclear energy in Maryland’s clean energy plan for long-term stability.
“Our coalition won’t stop until Maryland ends its energy crisis and restores affordable, reliable electricity,” Chisholm said. “Marylanders didn’t vote for blackouts. It’s time for real solutions.”
