Effective Participation
Participating in the Maryland Public Service Commission’s (PSC) Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN) process is an important way to ensure your voice is heard on the Maryland Piedmont Reliability Project (MPRP). Your input can influence decisions by highlighting community concerns, environmental impacts, and potential alternatives. This page provides guidance on how to craft impactful written comments and deliver persuasive verbal comments during public hearings.
Tips for Both Written and Verbal Comments
- Be Specific: Focus on concrete issues and provide examples or evidence when possible.
- Stay Respectful: A calm, professional tone strengthens your argument.
- Highlight Community Impact: Explain how the project affects you and others.
- Suggest Alternatives: Propose realistic solutions to mitigate concerns.
By taking the time to craft thoughtful comments, whether written or verbal, you contribute to a more informed and balanced decision-making process. Your participation can help protect your community, environment, and interests.
Do Not Panic. Be Prepared.
February 17, 2025
The deadline for filing a petition to intervene has been established as February 17, 2025. You can read the PSC's announcement here.
Effective Comments
Written Comments
Written comments allow you to present detailed concerns, suggestions, or support for a project in a structured and thoughtful manner. These are reviewed by the PSC and other stakeholders.
The PSC has not yet established a deadline for written comments. We will update this information when those dates are established.
How to Write Effective Comments
1. Start with Key Information:
- Include your name, address, and case number 9773 for the MPRP.
- Begin with a brief introduction explaining your interest in the project.
2. Focus on Key Issues:
- Address specific concerns such as environmental impacts, property devaluation, or community disruption.
- Provide examples, personal experiences, or data to support your points.
3. Be Concise and Clear:
- Use simple, direct language.
- Organize your comments into sections with headings if necessary (e.g., "Environmental Concerns," "Economic Impacts").
4. Offer Solutions:
- Suggest alternatives or mitigation strategies, like underground transmission lines or utilizing existing infrastructure.
4. Maintain a Respectful Tone:
- Stay professional and constructive, even when expressing strong opposition.
Verbal Comments
Public hearings provide an opportunity to share your concerns directly with the PSC, applicants, and other stakeholders. Your verbal comments can add a personal and emotional dimension to the proceedings.
The public hearings have not yet been scheduled. We will update this information when the hearings are scheduled.
How to Prepare for Verbal Comments
1. Plan Your Statement:
- Focus on 2-3 key points you want to emphasize.
- Keep your statement brief (2-3 minutes) to fit within the time limits typically set for public hearings.
2. Introduce Yourself:
- State your name, location, and your connection to the project (e.g., resident, property owner, farmer).
3. Deliver Key Messages:
- Speak clearly and focus on specific concerns or impacts (e.g., environmental harm, property value loss).
- Include personal stories or experiences to make your comments more impactful.
4. Conclude with a Call to Action:
- Summarize your position and what you want the PSC to do (e.g., deny the application, explore alternative solutions).
5. Practice Ahead of Time:
- Rehearse your comments to ensure they are concise and within the time limit.
What You Can Do Now To Prepare
Things You Can Do Now to Prepare for Drafting Written and Verbal Comments
Getting ready to submit written and verbal comments to the Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC) is key to ensuring your concerns and ideas are well-communicated. Here’s a list of steps you can take now to prepare for drafting effective comments:
Understand the Project
- Research the Project Details: Review the proposed Maryland Piedmont Reliability Project (MPRP) plans, environmental impact assessments, and other available documents.
- Identify Potential Impacts: Consider how the project could affect you, your property, your community, or the environment.
Define Your Concerns and Goals
- List Your Key Issues: Write down specific concerns such as environmental damage, property devaluation, or health risks.
- Clarify Your Position: Decide whether you support, oppose, or propose modifications to the project.
- Set Your Goals: Think about what you want the PSC to consider or change, such as exploring alternative solutions.
Gather Supporting Information
- Personal Stories and Examples: Reflect on how the project impacts you personally, your property, or your livelihood.
- Data and Research: Collect studies, reports, or statistics that support your concerns.
- Photos or Maps: If relevant, take photos or use maps to illustrate your points (e.g., proximity
Collaborate with Others
- Talk to Your Neighbors: Gather input from others in your community who share similar concerns.
- Join Advocacy Groups: Join Stop MPRP, Inc. to strengthen your voice and coordinate efforts.
- Learn from Experts: Seek advice from environmental or legal experts to understand the project’s broader implications.
Review PSC Guidelines
- Understand Comment Requirements: Familiarize yourself with the PSC’s rules for submitting written and verbal comments, including deadlines and formats.
- Identify the Docket Number: Ensure you reference the correct case number (e.g., "Case No. 9773").
Draft a Comment Outline
- Organize Your Points: Create a rough outline of the key points you want to cover in your comments.
- Include a Call to Action: Plan to end your comments with a clear recommendation (e.g., deny the project, explore alternatives, or require specific conditions).
Practice Verbal Comments
- Write a Script: Draft a brief, 2-3 minute statement summarizing your concerns.
- Rehearse:Practice delivering your comments aloud to ensure clarity and confidence.
- Prepare for Time Limits: Focus on your main points in case you need to adjust for shorter speaking times.
Stay Informed
- Monitor the Case: Subscribe to the docket to receive updates and hearing schedules.
- Attend Meetings: Observe PSC meetings or hearings to learn more about the process and common arguments.
Save Time for Editing
- Review Your Comments: Plan to revisit and refine your written comments before submission.
- Seek Feedback: Share your draft with others for input and suggestions.
Be Ready to Submit
- Know the Deadlines: Keep track of when written comments are due and when verbal comments will be heard. We don't expect any deadlines until late February at the earliest. Please subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.
- Prepare Materials: Have your documents, notes, or presentations ready for submission or delivery.