SB 716

The Decarbonization Infrastructure Solutions Act of 2025 expands Maryland's renewable energy portfolio standard by reclassifying nuclear energy as a Tier 1 renewable source, effectively treating nuclear power—including from small modular reactors—as equivalent to solar, wind, and other renewable sources for meeting state clean energy requirements. The bill increases the overall Tier 1 renewable energy requirements from 38% to 42% in 2026 and from 41.5% to 49.5% in 2027, with specific mandates that at least 4% (2026) and 8% (2027) must come from nuclear energy sources. Additionally, it establishes a procurement process through the Public Service Commission for approving nuclear energy generation projects and creates certified nuclear renewable energy credits that utilities can use to meet their renewable portfolio obligations. This legislation represents a significant policy shift by incorporating nuclear power into Maryland's renewable energy framework as a decarbonization strategy.