Established in 2008, EmPOWER Maryland is state law that requires utilities to fund energy efficiency programs for their customers — meaning Maryland businesses are entitled to significant rebates on energy upgrades, right now.
The EmPOWER Maryland Energy Efficiency Act of 2008 mandated that Maryland's electric utilities reduce overall electricity consumption. To meet those targets, each utility must offer rebate programs that pay for energy-saving upgrades at commercial buildings.
This is not a grant application or a lottery — it is a mandated program. Every Maryland business that is a commercial customer of BGE, Pepco, Delmarva Power, or SMECO is eligible to participate. The rebates are built into the program cycle and are available now.
The current program cycle runs 2024–2026. Under the Climate Solutions Now Act and the 2024 HB 864 update, EmPOWER Maryland has been expanded to include additional electrification incentives and broader building upgrade coverage.
You are already paying for this program through a small surcharge on your monthly electric bill — every Maryland electric customer is. That means the money is already collected and waiting to fund your upgrades.
All Maryland electric customers pay a small Systems Benefits Charge on each bill — this funds the rebate pools.
Each utility (BGE, Pepco, Delmarva, SMECO) manages its own rebate pool and sets program-specific incentive levels.
Businesses work with certified service providers like Maryland Smart Energy to access rebates — we handle all paperwork.
Rebates cover 75–85% of qualified project costs for small commercial customers. You pay nothing upfront in most cases.
EmPOWER Maryland has been funding energy efficiency since 2008, making it one of the nation's longest-running and most successful utility efficiency programs. Here is how it has evolved:
Governor O'Malley signs the EmPOWER Maryland Act, setting a statewide goal to reduce per capita electricity consumption by 15% by 2015. Utilities required to establish rebate programs.
EmPOWER Maryland expands to include comprehensive commercial building tune-up programs, HVAC incentives, and lighting upgrade rebates for businesses of all sizes.
Maryland exceeds its per-capita electricity reduction goal ahead of schedule, proving the program's effectiveness. Program extended and expanded with new three-year cycles.
Maryland passes landmark climate legislation mandating 60% GHG reduction by 2031 and net-zero emissions by 2045. EmPOWER Maryland is expanded significantly to support these goals, including BEPS for large buildings.
2024 legislation adds heat pump and electrification incentives to EmPOWER Maryland. Current 2024–2026 cycle offers highest rebate levels in program history for commercial customers.
EmPOWER Maryland operates through Maryland's four major electric utilities. Maryland Smart Energy is an authorized service provider for all four, meaning we can serve businesses in nearly all of Maryland.
Your utility is determined by your address. Check your electric bill — it will show BGE, Pepco, Delmarva Power, or SMECO. If you're unsure, we can look it up when you call.
Call (301) 888-7090 →Under the current 2024–2026 cycle, Maryland commercial businesses can access rebates for the following programs. All are available through Maryland Smart Energy at $0 out-of-pocket.
Comprehensive tune-up and optimization of existing commercial HVAC systems. Rooftop units, split systems, and package equipment. Saves 5–20% on HVAC energy costs.
Up to 85% CoveredWhole-building energy optimization for commercial properties. Includes small building, large building, and monitoring-based commissioning programs for buildings up to 200,000 sqft.
Up to 85% CoveredLED lighting retrofits and controls upgrades. Includes instant discounts at participating distributors plus utility rebates. 90% energy reduction versus legacy fluorescent and HID.
Up to 80% CoveredSince 2008, the program has delivered exceptional ROI for Maryland businesses and the state as a whole.
Most Maryland commercial businesses qualify for at least one EmPOWER Maryland program. Here are the key eligibility requirements:
Your business must be a commercial electric customer of BGE, Pepco, Delmarva Power, or SMECO.
HVAC equipment must be at least 2 years old and in operational condition for tune-up eligibility.
Office, retail, warehouse, industrial, medical, restaurant, hospitality, and most commercial property types qualify.
Equipment and systems must not have received an EmPOWER Maryland rebate within the past program cycle.
Businesses with multiple locations or buildings can apply for each qualifying property separately.
Small businesses with just one HVAC unit qualify the same as large campuses. There is no minimum building size or energy spend.
Maryland Smart Energy manages the entire process on your behalf. Here is how it works:
Reach out by phone or web form. We will confirm your utility, building type, and which programs you are eligible for — no paperwork yet.
Our technician visits your property to assess your HVAC systems, lighting, and building envelope. This visit is free and typically takes 1–2 hours.
Maryland Smart Energy submits all rebate paperwork to your utility on your behalf. You do not fill out a single form. We track the application through approval.
Work is completed with rebate applied — meaning you pay nothing or near nothing out of pocket. Savings begin immediately on your next utility bill.
These rebates are funded and available right now. Don't leave money on the table — call Maryland Smart Energy today.
Schedule a Free Assessment Call (301) 888-7090