Maryland is facing an unprecedented energy challenge. Our state’s growing dependence on aging infrastructure, coupled with rising demand from new industries like data centers and electric vehicles, has put enormous pressure on our power grid. As we grapple with these realities, the Maryland Piedmont Reliability Project (MPRP) has been proposed as a stopgap solution to shore up our grid’s reliability. However, while the proposed 70-mile power line addresses immediate concerns for Virginia, it is fundamentally shortsighted for the people of Maryland. It treats the symptoms of our region’s energy issues without addressing the root causes: a lack of diverse, sustainable and forward-thinking energy planning.

Maryland can and must do better. We have a golden opportunity to establish a comprehensive energy strategy that not only tackles today’s challenges but positions us as a national leader in energy innovation. The key lies in developing an Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) that guides our state toward a balanced, resilient and clean energy future. The time for decisive leadership is now.

Maryland’s energy sector is at a tipping point. Our reliance on imported electricity is growing, making us vulnerable to supply disruptions and price volatility. Meanwhile, the state’s ambitious goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition to renewable energy are being undermined by a failure to plan for future energy needs comprehensively.

The MPRP — a significant transmission project aimed at enhancing grid reliability in the Piedmont region — addresses immediate grid stress but does little to solve the underlying problem of energy supply and diversification. Maryland cannot continue to patch up its energy challenges with piecemeal solutions. We need a strategic, long-term approach that an IRP can provide.

An IRP is not just a technical document; it is a comprehensive strategy that evaluates all available energy resources, forecasts future demand and guides investment decisions that benefit all stakeholders. By adopting an IRP, Maryland can move beyond short-term fixes like MPRP and build a sustainable, diversified energy portfolio that includes advanced nuclear, renewables, natural gas, and cutting-edge storage technologies. Here’s why an IRP is critical for Maryland:

Nuclear power: Maryland’s energy future must include nuclear power as a cornerstone of its clean energy strategy. As a zero-emission baseload power source, nuclear energy provides the consistent, reliable electricity that wind and solar cannot always deliver. Advanced nuclear technologies, such as Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), offer a new, safer, and more flexible approach to nuclear power. SMRs can be rapidly deployed to replace retiring coal and natural gas plants, providing Maryland with a stable energy backbone that supports renewable integration.

Nuclear power is not just about electricity; it’s about reliability, resilience and emissions reduction. Unlike other power sources, nuclear operates continuously, providing a dependable energy supply regardless of weather conditions or time of day. For Maryland, this means enhanced energy security and a significant reduction in carbon emissions — a critical step in meeting our environmental commitments.

Energy diversification:The MPRP focuses narrowly on improving transmission infrastructure, but it fails to address Maryland’s fundamental energy supply issues. An IRP would allow Maryland to strategically invest in a diversified mix of energy sources, including advanced nuclear, offshore wind, solar, and battery storage. This holistic approach not only improves grid reliability but also enhances our resilience against future disruptions.

Diversification is key to breaking free from the cycle of reactive, costly projects like MPRP. By investing in a broader energy portfolio, Maryland can mitigate risks, reduce dependency on imports and create a more adaptable and resilient energy system.

Economic growth and high-quality jobs: A forward-looking IRP will spur economic growth by positioning Maryland as a leader in clean energy technology. Investments in SMRs, renewables and grid modernization can create thousands of well-paying jobs, attract cutting-edge companies and stimulate local economies. By embracing nuclear innovation, Maryland can also tap into federal incentives and funding for advanced energy projects, driving billions of dollars of investment into the state. It makes future opportunities like Quantum Frederick possible with minimal impact to rural Marylanders.

Enhancing grid resilience and modernization:Maryland’s grid must evolve to meet the demands of the 21st century. An IRP would prioritize smart grid technologies, microgrids and large-scale energy storage, enhancing our grid’s ability to handle peak demand, integrate renewables and recover from outages. The result is a more resilient grid that protects Maryland residents, businesses and critical infrastructure from the increasing threats of extreme weather and cyberattacks.

Leading in environmental stewardship:Maryland has set ambitious goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but we cannot achieve them through renewables alone. Nuclear power, with its zero-emission credentials, is a critical piece of the puzzle. By integrating nuclear into our energy mix, Maryland can make significant strides toward its climate goals while maintaining the reliability and stability our economy depends on.

Governor Wes Moore has demonstrated a commitment to bold, transformative leadership across education, economic equity and social justice. Now, Maryland needs that same vision applied to our energy future. By championing an Integrated Resource Plan, Moore can address the systemic issues underlying our state’s energy challenges and pivot from a reactive, symptom-focused approach exemplified by MPRP to a proactive, strategic framework.

This is not just about managing today’s needs — it’s about building a legacy of energy leadership for generations to come. With an IRP, Maryland can establish itself as a model for the nation, showcasing how a diverse, resilient and clean energy system can drive economic growth, enhance environmental protection and ensure energy security.

Maryland has the expertise, resources and drive to lead in the energy sector. Governor Moore, this is your moment to set Maryland on a path toward a sustainable and secure energy future. Let’s move beyond short-term solutions and embrace a comprehensive strategy that positions Maryland at the forefront of America’s clean energy revolution.

The opportunity to lead is here. The time to act is now. Let’s make Maryland a beacon of energy innovation for the rest of the country.

Mark A. Aitken lives on a farm in northern Baltimore County. He is senior vice president of advanced technology at Sinclair Broadcast Group, whose executive chairman is The Baltimore Sun’s principal owner David Smith.