1. (a) If the Commission determines that a site is needed, the Commission, on its own motion, may request the Secretary of Natural Resources to purchase a power plant site as provided in Title 3, Subtitle 3 of the Natural Resources Article.

2. (b) In determining whether a need exists for the State to purchase a power plant site, the Commission shall consider:

   1. (1) the suitability of sites owned by an electric company, both within and outside the State;
   2. (2) the anticipated growth of electric power demand and the alternative means and locations for meeting that demand, both within and outside the State; and
   3. (3) any other factors required by law.

3. (c)

   1. (1) The Commission may determine that a power plant site is needed only after the Commission gives public notice and holds a public hearing.
   2. (2) The hearing shall be held in the legislative district in which the site under consideration is located.

Added by Acts 1998, c. 8, § 2, eff. Oct. 1, 1998.

Formerly Art. 78, § 54B.