# Maryland Energy Report: The Challenge of Coal

- Link: https://greenlivingguy.com/2011/10/maryland-energy-report-the-challenge-of-coal/
- Published: 2011-10-14T20:11:02-04:00
- Author: greenlivingguy

## Report Highlights Maryland’s Dependence on Dirty Energy

A recent report warns that Maryland relies too heavily on dirty energy sources, 
leading to increased air pollution and higher greenhouse gas emissions. The analysis
reveals that despite progress in some areas, the state still generates much of its
power from coal and other fossil fuels.

Moreover, this dependence puts Maryland behind other states working to modernize
their energy systems and cut carbon emissions. The report argues that without stronger
action, Maryland will struggle to meet its climate goals and protect public health.

### Coal and Fossil Fuels Still Dominate

Coal-fired power plants remain a significant part of Maryland’s energy mix. These
plants produce large amounts of carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and other harmful
pollutants.

Because of this, communities face increased health risks, including asthma, heart
disease, and other respiratory problems. Additionally, coal plants contribute to
smog and acid rain, harming forests, waterways, and wildlife.

While Maryland has invested in renewable energy projects, the report notes these
efforts haven’t been enough to shift the balance. As a result, fossil fuels continue
to dominate the state’s electricity generation.

### Environmental and Health Costs

The report emphasizes the environmental cost of relying on dirty energy. Fossil 
fuel combustion releases not just carbon dioxide but also mercury and other toxins.
These pollutants contaminate air, water, and soil, threatening wildlife and human
health alike.

Moreover, low-income and vulnerable communities often bear the brunt of these impacts.
They live closer to power plants and industrial sites, facing higher exposure to
pollutants and health risks.

Reducing fossil fuel use isn’t just an environmental goal. It’s a public health 
necessity.

### The Call for Clean Energy Solutions

The authors of the report urge Maryland to accelerate its transition to clean energy.
This means investing more in wind, solar, and energy efficiency projects. It also
includes retiring aging, polluting power plants and replacing them with cleaner 
alternatives.

Additionally, the report calls for stronger state policies to promote renewable 
energy adoption and cut emissions. This approach would help Maryland meet climate
targets while creating jobs and strengthening the local economy.

Furthermore, moving toward clean energy improves resilience. By diversifying energy
sources, Maryland can reduce reliance on imported fuels and protect consumers from
price volatility.

### A Path Forward

Maryland stands at a crossroads. The choice is clear: continue relying on dirty,
polluting energy or invest in a cleaner, healthier future.

With strong leadership and bold policies, Maryland can shift to a sustainable energy
system. This change would reduce pollution, protect public health, and support economic
growth for years to come.

Want to learn more, click to the streaming audio replay at [http://www.environmentalintegrity.org](https://web.archive.org/web/20190527053436/https://www.environmentalintegrity.org/)

### Sources

 1. [U.S. Energy Information Administration: Maryland State Energy Profile](https://www.eia.gov/state/?sid=MD)
 2. Maryland Department of the Environment: Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Act
 3. [American Lung Association: State of the Air Report](https://www.lung.org/research/sota)

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 greenlivingguy

 The Green Living Guy, Seth Leitman is an independent power producer, a green living
expert, and Editor of the McGraw-Hill, TAB Green Guru Guides. Seth is also an Author,
Radio Host, Reporter, Writer and an Environmental Consultant on green living. The
Green Living Guy writes about green living, green lighting, the green guru guides
and more. Seth's books range from: # Build Your Own Electric Vehicle by Bob Brant
and Seth Leitman (2nd and 3rd editions) # Build Your Own Plug-in Hybrid Electric
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Lighting by Seth Leitman, Brian Clark Howard and Bill Brinsky # Solar Power For 
Your Home by David Findley # Renewable Energies For Your Home by Russel Gehrke #
Do-it-Yourself Home Energy Audits by David Findley # Build Your Own Small Wind Power
System by Brian Clark Howard and Kevin Shea # and more green living books to follow.

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