Maryland has introduced a new law requiring public electric vehicle (EV) charging stations to pay an annual fee of $150 per port starting January 2026. The state aims to regulate charger installations and ensure compliance with standards set by the Weights and Measures program, but this move could hinder EV adoption.
Key Takeaways
- Maryland introduces a $150 annual fee per public EV charging port starting January 2026.
- The state’s Weights and Measures program will inspect chargers to ensure compliance with rates, contact information, and other requirements.
- Non-compliant chargers may be disabled until they meet the new regulations.
Maryland’s Department of Agriculture oversees the Weights and Measures program, which mandates annual registration for all public EV charging stations. This includes common four-port Level 2 installations, where operators will need to pay $600 annually per station. In contrast, gasoline pumps are registered at a much lower cost of just $20 each.
The new law aims to cover inspection and verification costs by collecting fees from charger operators. Inspectors will start visiting charging sites in January 2026 to confirm registration status and ensure chargers display the required information prominently. Non-compliant stations may face penalties, including being taken offline until they meet requirements.
Independent operators and property owners who host EV chargers at apartments, condos, workplaces, hotels, or retail spaces are concerned about the impact of this new fee on their economics. They argue that lower usage rates make it difficult to justify such high costs, potentially leading to fewer charging stations being available for public use.
Commercial fast-charging station providers have also expressed concerns over the financial burden imposed by the new regulations. Some industry experts predict a reduction in the number of chargers across Maryland as operators seek ways to offset these additional expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the annual fee for EV charging ports?
The new law imposes an $150 annual fee per public EV charging port in Maryland, effective January 2026.
How will non-compliant chargers be handled?
Non-compliant chargers may be disabled and issued a stop-use notice until they meet the new registration requirements set by the Weights and Measures program.
The introduction of this fee has sparked debate among EV owners, industry experts, and policymakers. While the state aims to regulate charger installations and ensure compliance with standards, critics argue that such measures could hinder the adoption of electric vehicles in Maryland.
