Late Friday, Maryland’s landmark community choice energy (CCE) legislation passed into law. The bill will establish a CCE pilot program in Montgomery County, shortly after state-level rules are written to govern all CCE programs, including any future programs in other communities.

The bill, HB 768, championed by Delegate Charkoudian (D-20) and Senator Feldman (D-15), affords localities in Maryland the right to purchase and generate electricity for their residents and businesses. With the bill’s passage into law, Maryland is now the ninth state in the nation to allow CCE programs.

In response, Food & Water Watch Maryland Organizer Lily Hawkins issued the following statement:

“Community choice energy in Maryland is a victory for energy democracy. The norm for utility relationships has become one of communities beholden to investor-backed private companies. With CCE, communities will be in the drivers’ seat, potentially electing officials in and out of office based on how satisfied they are with their utility bills. We’re proud to have led the effort to bring CCE to Maryland, alongside grassroots partners and bold legislators ready to make good on Montgomery County’s commitment to addressing the climate emergency.”