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Maryland Energy Assistance Need Hits $186 Million as BGE Bills Strain Households
Maryland households required $186 million in energy assistance over the past year, driven by rising utility bills and inefficient homes. Advocates urge residents facing termination notices to apply for state grants and energy audits before winter.
BALTIMORE â Maryland residents grappling with rising BGE bills have collectively needed $186 million in energy assistance over the past year, according to state data, as advocates warn that the time to act is now for households facing past-due balances or termination notices.
Laurel Peltier, chair of Maryland's limited-income utility coalition, said the first step for anyone struggling is to check whether they qualify for state grant programs. "For people who are really worried about their bill, the number one thing is if you have a termination notice or a big past-due balance, is to say, can I access grant programs within the state," Peltier said.
For households below a certain income threshold, the Maryland Office of Home Energy Assistance Programs provides grants paid directly to utility bills. A family of four must earn less than $5,500 per month before taxes to qualify. Applicants also receive a 55-day termination hold while their application is processed.
"You will get grants that are sent from the state straight to your BGE bill," Peltier said. "You also get a 55-day termination hold if you apply for energy assistance."
For households that earn too much to qualify for state assistance, the Fuel Fund offers another path. The program works with customers to pay off overdue balances, with the household covering a portion and the Fuel Fund covering the rest.
"It can really help a household get back to zero. That is the goal with Fuel Fund," Peltier said.
Beyond immediate relief, Peltier said the root cause of high bills for many households goes beyond rates. "The rate issue is real, but what is driving the high bills for many people is a home that is too leaky and super old HVAC heating and cooling appliances," she said.
BGE offers two energy audit options: a shorter, free version and a more comprehensive audit for $100. Both help homeowners identify where warm air is escaping, and rebates are available on many recommended fixes.
"With high rates right like this, it's just why not do it? Why waste the money if you can actually make your home more comfortable by making it energy efficient, plug up all those leaks, and then get the best technology in there that uses the least amount of electricity," Peltier said.
Peltier advised residents to schedule audits and maintenance now, before severe cold arrives and heating systems are put under the most stress. The $186 million in assistance reflects the scale of need across the state as energy costs continue to climb.