Maryland Regulators Consider Cuts to EmPOWER Energy Efficiency Program Amid Utility Proposals
Maryland's electric utilities have submitted proposals to the Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC) to reduce the scope and budget of the EmPOWER Maryland energy efficiency program. These proposals follow a temporary legislative reduction earlier this year, aimed at offsetting high electric bills. Utilities, including Exelon-owned Baltimore Gas & Electric (BGE), Pepco, and Delmarva Power, are advocating for deeper cuts, arguing it provides immediate relief to customers facing rising energy costs. For instance, Potomac Edison customers could see monthly bill reductions of $8.06 to $8.79, while BGE and Pepco customers might see $6 to $7.50 in savings. However, these proposed cuts coincide with separate rate increase requests from Exelon utilities, which could diminish the perceived savings for consumers. Consumer advocates and environmental groups warn that such reductions could lead to higher long-term costs by increasing strain on the electric grid and necessitating new infrastructure. 
