Statement: EmPOWER Maryland lowers bills, reduces pollution, and lessons demand on grid

Maryland PIRG Senior Advisor Emily Scarr issued the following statement:

“Better energy efficiency in our homes and businesses means lower utility bills, warmer homes in winter, cooler homes in summer, and cleaner air for our families. Getting rid of energy efficiency programs in the face of increased utility bills is like cutting off your nose to spite your face.

At a time when unchecked spending by BGE and utilities across the state and rising gas costs are driving up energy bills for Maryland residents, it’s disappointing to see attempts to scapegoat common-sense energy efficiency measures that have delivered billions of dollars worth of benefits to consumers. Not only has EmPOWER Maryland steadily reduced energy consumption, it has saved customers $4 billion on their energy bills. Despite opposition from utilities like BGE seeking to protect their profits, the legislature updated the program in 2024 to expand EmPOWER offerings while bringing down program costs.

Since 2010, BGE has seen its profits triple. During that time, delivery charges on BGE gas bills tripled. As a result, central Maryland residents are forced to choose between heating their homes and putting food on the table this winter. Backtracking on programs that help residents increase energy efficiency and use less energy would only raise utility bills further.

The legislature was wise to update the EmPOWER program in 2024 to expand energy efficiency offerings and rightsize utility profits, which were needlessly driving up program costs. All Marylanders should take advantage of EmPOWER to help reduce energy waste and pollution and save money on your energy bills.”