Maryland Benefit Cost Analysis Framework for Distributed Energy Resources

The Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC) tasked a working group with developing a Maryland-specific Unified Benefit Cost Analysis (UBCA) framework to address the cost-effectiveness of all distributed energy resources (DER) considering the principles and steps included in the National Standards Practice Manual (NSPM). The PSC indicated that the development of a UBCA could assist with the identification of the least-cost means to achieve Maryland’s policy goals, increase transparency and efficiency in the assessment of energy resources, and provide the utilities with greater regulatory certainty in preparing filings.

Synapse was retained by the Maryland Office of People’s Counsel (OPC) to provide technical assistance as part of the working group process to develop a unified BCA. In this capacity, Synapse attended meetings, reviewed materials, and provided written comments.

On May 17, 2024, the working group filed its report containing a consensus-based BCA framework.

The Commission issued an Order adopting the framework on November 22, 2024.