Learn About Energy
Understanding Energy in Maryland
Whether you want to know where your electricity comes from, how Maryland’s energy market works, or what policies affect your energy choices, this section provides the background knowledge to help you make more informed decisions as a consumer.
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Types of Energy
The electricity we rely on is produced at power plants using different energy sources, which vary geographically and are shaped by local energy policies. Maryland’s energy mix includes nuclear power from the Calvert Cliffs plant, natural gas, coal, and a growing portfolio of renewable sources including solar, wind, hydropower, and biomass. Learn more about the different types of energy in Maryland.
Where Your Energy Comes From
Energy doesn’t just arrive at the flip of a switch. It’s generated, transmitted, and delivered through a complex system. Learn about how energy is produced, the sources used to generate it, and what you can do at home to use it more efficiently and cut costs.
Understanding the Energy Marketplace
This section offers a guide to navigating Maryland’s energy marketplace, with information to help you better understand how energy is delivered to your home, read your bill, explore energy types, and take control of your costs and reduce your carbon footprint.
Know Your Provider
Your utility company is responsible for delivering electricity or gas to your home and maintaining the infrastructure. This section explains how to identify your provider, understand electricity pricing including peak vs. off-peak hours, and read your utility bill.
Retail Choice
In Maryland, you have the option to choose your electricity supplier separately from your utility company. Your utility remains responsible for delivering power to your home, while a supplier provides the actual electricity. Understanding how retail choice works can help you find better rates or renewable energy options.
Rural & Cooperative Programs
Maryland residents in rural areas or served by electric cooperatives have access to energy programs tailored to their specific situation. Electric cooperatives are member-owned utilities that operate differently from investor-owned utilities like BGE or Pepco. Learn about the options and programs available to rural Maryland residents.
Ready to Start Saving?
Now that you understand how energy works, explore practical ways to lower your bills and make your home more efficient.
Looking for Financial Help?
Rebates, tax credits, and assistance programs are available for Maryland residents at every income level.