Securing Our Energy Future

Recently, Maryland Matters featured a thought-provoking op-ed by my colleagues Kevin Murphy and Jim Steffes. I found myself thinking about how providing safe, reliable energy today while pursuing a climate-conscious energy future is such a precise balancing act. "Why STRIDE Matters for Securing Maryland's Energy Future" thoughtfully examines these complexities.

As we work toward a lower-carbon future, we should always remember the everyday need for dependable energy for homes and businesses. In Maryland, the Strategic Infrastructure Development and Enhancement (STRIDE) program has been instrumental in modernizing and securing this infrastructure while significantly reducing leaks and enhancing system safety.

As I've shared in past discussions, our strategy for modernizing our infrastructure is ambitious and grounded. With a $1.7 billion investment in pipeline replacement planned over the next five years, our goal is to fortify the backbone of our region’s energy systems, making it safer and more efficient while also being mindful of our climate goals.

By enhancing system safety and reliability, we're taking a pragmatic approach to reducing emissions without compromising energy security. The dual focus on safety and sustainability isn't just possible—it's imperative.

Some voices in the conversation around STRIDE suggest a tension between upgrading our natural gas infrastructure and Maryland's climate commitments. However, I believe this perspective overlooks the essence of our mission. Enhancing our pipelines reduces risks and emissions and supports our area’s economic vitality through job creation and infrastructure improvement.

Embracing a "both/and" approach is crucial. We're not just preparing for the future; we're actively shaping it by making thoughtful, immediate improvements with benefits today and tomorrow. Supporting STRIDE is more than maintaining the status quo; it's about proactively building a safer, more sustainable DMV region.

I’m inspired by the ongoing dialogue about strategies to navigate these challenges. Thank you for engaging with us on this critical journey toward energy innovation and sustainability.

#energy #innovation #naturalgas #washingtondc #dmv