The State That Just Fast-Tracked a Power Revolution

Maryland mandates VPP integration, pushing utilities and tech firms into a new era of grid innovation and energy democratization.

8 May 2025

Maryland has issued a landmark directive requiring utilities to accelerate the integration of distributed energy resources, a move expected to advance the use of virtual power plants (VPPs) across the US.

Order No. 91603 from the Maryland Public Service Commission compels utilities to comply with Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Order 2222, which allows aggregated assets such as rooftop solar, home batteries and electric vehicles to participate in regional wholesale power markets.

Baltimore Gas and Electric and Potomac Edison must submit detailed implementation plans within six months. These will need to explain how customer-owned devices will be registered, monitored and coordinated with regional grid operator PJM. The order signals a shift from a centralised generation model to one in which consumers play a larger role in supplying power.

Technology providers including AutoGrid Systems and Generac, which offer software and hardware for managing fleets of distributed assets, are expected to benefit as utilities adapt to the requirements. While neither company has commented directly on the order, analysts expect rising demand for intelligent energy management platforms.

Some utilities have voiced concern over the cost and complexity of compliance, but others welcome the policy clarity. “This order sends a strong message that distributed energy is no longer optional; it’s essential,” said a Maryland energy official involved in the proceedings.

The changes could give consumers higher returns on solar and battery investments and greater flexibility in managing electricity use. Supporters also argue the measures will improve grid resilience and adaptability amid rising demand and climate-related disruptions.

Maryland’s move is seen by industry observers as a potential model for other states, signalling that distributed energy will form a central part of future grid design.