The Maryland Public Service Commission appointed Thomas C. Gorak as special master to oversee proceedings examining natural gas utilities’ long-term planning practices, aligning them with state climate goals and cost controls for consumers.
Gorak, a Baltimore-based attorney with over 44 years in public utility law, will preside over the hearings in Case No. 9707, known as the Future of Gas proceeding. The Maryland Public Service Commission issued Order No. 91791 on August 20, 2025, directing Gorak to convene an initial prehearing conference within 30 days to address procedural matters.
The review focuses on current capacity, supply and capital investment planning by natural gas companies under Maryland Public Service Commission jurisdiction. It also explores alignment between gas and electric planning to support a lower-carbon future at reasonable costs. At the end, the Maryland Public Service Commission will decide on necessary changes.
“Against the backdrop of this continued commitment to address climate change and utility cost control, the Commission takes these next steps to address how natural gas company planning practices should be structured on an ongoing basis so as to ensure that these goals are met at the lowest cost possible for consumers,” said Frederick H. Hoover, chair of the Maryland Public Service Commission.
The proceedings tie into Maryland’s climate objectives, including the Climate Solutions Now Act of 2022, which mandates a 60% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from 2006 levels by 2031 and net-zero by 2045. The act emphasizes reducing fossil fuel dependence and promoting renewables.
The 2025 Maryland General Assembly passed the Next Generation Energy Act, modifying the Renewable Portfolio Standard, encouraging generation development and setting criteria for utility cost recovery. Signed by Gov. Wes Moore on May 21, 2025, it requires gas infrastructure replacement plans to meet specific standards for ratepayer funding eligibility. The act includes provisions for 1,600 megawatts of battery storage procurements, administered by the Maryland Public Service Commission.
Gorak’s experience includes serving as chief counsel and interim commissioner for the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission, assistant Maryland people’s counsel and roles advising residential customers, municipalities and small utilities. He has testified as an expert witness and consulted internationally on utility regulation.
The Maryland Public Service Commission recently addressed gas line extension policies in a June 13, 2025, order, noting incompatibility with climate policies. It directed technical staff to draft revised regulations.
Natural gas companies affected include Baltimore Gas and Electric, Columbia Gas of Maryland, Washington Gas and Chesapeake Utilities. In Southern Maryland, Washington Gas provides service in parts of Charles and Prince George’s counties, while Chesapeake Utilities covers areas in Calvert County. Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative handles electricity but not gas.
The Maryland Public Service Commission regulates investor-owned utilities, ensuring reliable service and reasonable rates. Established in 1910, it oversees electricity, gas, telecommunications and transportation.
Stakeholders, including utilities, environmental groups and consumer advocates, can participate in the proceedings. The Maryland Public Service Commission encourages public input through its website.
Maryland’s push for renewables under the Next Generation Energy Act aims to curb rate hikes, following approvals for energy reform bills in April 2025. The act minimizes support for new gas plants while advancing battery storage and data center reforms.
The Climate Solutions Now Act, enacted April 2022, sets aggressive targets, with the state on track for some metrics as of January 2024 reports. Implementation includes building efficiency standards, though some faced legislative hurdles in 2024.
For Southern Maryland residents, changes could impact gas infrastructure costs, passed through rates. The region, with rural and suburban areas, relies on natural gas for heating in many homes.
The Maryland Public Service Commission has handled similar reviews, like the 2019 grid modernization efforts.
Gorak’s appointment draws on his expertise in balancing consumer interests with regulatory needs. In Hawaii, he contributed to renewable integration policies.
The proceedings may influence utility investments, potentially shifting from gas expansions to alternatives like electrification.
Public notices for the prehearing conference will appear on the Maryland Public Service Commission website.
Maryland’s energy landscape evolves with federal incentives under the Inflation Reduction Act, complementing state laws.
The Maryland Public Service Commission continues monitoring compliance with emission reductions.
