Reliable energy provides the foundation for a functioning modern society, and residents of Maryland have come to expect minimal interruptions in their supply of electricity, transportation fuels, and heating products. Energy supplies are not just a convenience, but have become a necessity for individuals and businesses. A prolonged interruption of the supply of basic energy or fuel would likely result in significant harm to Maryland's public health, safety, economy, and security.

Although energy commodities are supplied by private firms, the State's interest in providing for the welfare of its citizens gives it a role to play in helping firms assure the continued provision of energy and fuel. One of MEA’s statutory responsibilities, as established in §9–2005 of the State Government article of Maryland, is to prepare contingency plans for a potential severe shortage of fuel resources. As part of this responsibility, MEA updated Maryland’s Liquid Fuel Emergency Plan​ in 2022.​​

As Maryland’s state energy office (SEO), MEA also works closely with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)​ on a number of energy-related topics, including energy security. Most recently, MEA is working on updating Maryland’s energy security plan using an outline of security-related topics provided by DOE; Maryland’s Liquid Fuel Emergency Plan will inform the broader Energy Security Plan. An earlier version of Maryland’s energy security plan, entitled the Maryland Energy Assurance Plan (EAP), remains available for review. The prior Energy Assurance Plan was funded through an award from DOE during the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).

For more information about Maryland energy assurance and security planning, contact MEA Emergency Management Coordinator, Brandon Bowser, at BrandonW.Bowser@Maryland.gov or by calling 443.306.0304.