Delmarva Power Plans Major Transmission Line Upgrade in Wicomico and Worcester Counties

Residents of Salisbury and surrounding areas are encouraged to participate in an upcoming virtual hearing regarding Delmarva Power & Light Company's proposal to upgrade a significant portion of its transmission infrastructure.

The utility aims to rebuild 20.7 miles of the existing 138 kV overhead transmission line, enhancing it to a 230 kV capacity. This line stretches from the Piney Grove substation in Salisbury, Maryland, to the New Church substation in Accomack County, Virginia.

The virtual hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at 7 p.m., and will be presided over by Public Utility Law Judge Christine L. Burke.

In December 2024, Delmarva Power submitted an application to the Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC) seeking a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN). This certificate is essential for the construction of high-voltage transmission lines within the state. The proposed upgrade will occur entirely within the existing right-of-way in Wicomico and Worcester counties.

The hearing will feature a presentation by Delmarva Power, along with statements from various stakeholders, including the Power Plant Research Program of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, the Maryland Office of People’s Counsel (the state's ratepayer advocate), and the PSC's Technical Staff. These parties will discuss their roles and provide recommendations concerning the project.

Community members wishing to speak at the hearing must register by August 15, 2025. Registration can be completed through the PSC's website by navigating to the 'Public Comment Hearing' section under 'Featured Topics,' selecting 'Case 9766' for the August 19 hearing, and following the prompts to schedule the event. Upon registration, participants will receive a Zoom link to join the hearing.

For those who prefer to observe without speaking, the hearing will be streamed live on the Public Utility Law Judge Division's YouTube channel.

In addition to verbal comments during the hearing, written comments are welcomed until August 22, 2025. These can be submitted electronically through the PSC's online portal or by mail addressed to:

Jamie Bergin, Chief Clerk

Maryland Public Service Commission

William Donald Schaefer Tower

6 St. Paul Street, 16th Floor

Baltimore, MD 21202

All written comments should reference Case No. 9766 to ensure they are properly filed.

The application and related documents are available for public review at the following locations:

Delmarva Power & Light Company

2530 N. Salisbury Boulevard

Salisbury, MD

Wicomico County Library

122 S. Division Street

Salisbury, MD

Worcester County Library (Pocomoke City Branch)

301 Market Street

Pocomoke City, MD

Worcester County Library (Snow Hill Branch)

307 North Washington Street

Snow Hill, MD

This project represents a significant investment in the region's electrical infrastructure, aiming to enhance service reliability and meet growing energy demands. Community input is vital to ensure that the project addresses local concerns and benefits all stakeholders.

For more information, visit the Maryland Public Service Commission's website or contact Delmarva Power directly.