April 7, 2021

Dear Governor Hogan,

With the passage of the Climate Solutions Now Act of 2022, Maryland is on track to become a principal voice in the advancement of U.S. clean energy. Our coalition of labor, businesses, and advocacy groups is as diverse as the energy needs of Maryland, and we recognize the need to prepare Maryland for the energy future, support economic growth, and preserve the health and environment of communities in Maryland. We thank the Maryland General Assembly for meaningfully recognizing the key role of carbon-free nuclear in meeting the state’s goal of a 60% reduction in GHG emissions by 2031. With your signature, Marylanders can find comfort knowing its leaders are prioritizing safe, clean, and reliable energy sources like nuclear, and looking out for the health and prosperity of Maryland residents.

Nuclear energy is a vital energy resource in Maryland, providing 23 percent of electricity generated statewide and 81 percent of carbon-free energy. Just last week, the Brattle Group released findings from a study of the environmental and economic impacts of the Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Power Plant in Lusby. The report found that Calvert Cliffs prevents 4 million tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and keeps electricity prices $47 million lower for Maryland energy consumers, each year.  The Climate Solutions Now Act recognizes that any meaningful plan to tackle climate change depends on embracing all clean power sources, including nuclear, and making way for an emission-free future.

As Maryland charts its energy future, the state’s strong nuclear energy footprint will be key to unlocking the clean energy transition and accelerating economic growth. Statewide, the nuclear energy industry supports nearly 5,000 full-time jobs, and contributes nearly $15 million in state tax revenues every year – funding libraries, schools, and other critical services. Nuclear power in Maryland contributes an average of $600 million per year to the state’s GDP, and a gross output of more than $1.2 billion.

By formally recognizing the critical role of nuclear energy, the Climate Solutions Now Act will help to ensure that Maryland’s clean energy future is secure, reliable, and prosperous. We look forward to your continued support as we all work to meet our clean energy goals and support well-paying jobs in our community.

Signed,

American Nuclear Society
Baltimore-DC Metro Building Trades Council
Calvert County Chamber of Commerce
Calvert County Government
Center for Climate and Energy Solutions (C2ES)
Centrus Energy
Constellation
EXCEL Services Corporation
Nuclear Energy Institute
Nuclear Matters
LiUNA
The Nuclear Alternative Project
Orano USA
Sensible Energy Matters to America (SEMA)
Studsvik Scandpower
WSC
X-energy

CC:
Speaker Jones
President Ferguson