Energy Policy
Changes in Maryland’s gas and electric policies are designed to make energy more affordable, reliable, and sustainable. These changes directly benefit families by reducing costs, improving energy efficiency, protecting the environment, and ensuring everyone has access to essential energy services.
Visit our Policy Updates page to see most recent policy changes enacted by the Maryland General Assembly!
How Energy Policy Affects You
Lower Energy Costs
Policies that promote energy efficiency and renewable energy sources can help reduce your utility bills. When the state or utilities offer rebates and tax credits for energy-efficient appliances and home upgrades, you can save money. These incentives make it easier and more affordable to adopt energy-saving technologies.
Energy Efficiency
New policies often require higher efficiency standards for appliances and buildings, meaning you will use less energy to get the same job done. This can lower your overall energy consumption and reduce your monthly bills. Additionally, smart meters and smart grids help you monitor and manage your energy usage more effectively, ensuring you only use what you need.
Environmental Impact
Policies that encourage the use of renewable energy sources, like solar and wind, reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. This leads to cleaner air and a healthier environment for everyone. By cutting down on carbon emissions, these policies help combat climate change, securing a safer and more sustainable future for our children.
Reliability and Resilience
Investing in grid modernization and infrastructure improvements means fewer power outages and more reliable energy for your home. Policies that manage peak energy demand help maintain grid stability during times of high usage, preventing blackouts and ensuring your home stays powered even during extreme weather or high-demand periods.
Consumer Protections
Regulatory policies protect you from unfair pricing and ensure transparency in your utility bills. They also support energy assistance programs that help low-income families afford essential utilities, making sure everyone has access to necessary energy services.
Access to Renewable Energy
Community solar programs supported by new policies allow you to benefit from solar energy even if you cannot install solar panels on your own home. Net metering policies let you sell any extra energy you generate back to the grid, potentially providing extra income or credits on your utility bills.