Why Upgrade Your Commercial Lighting?
Lighting typically represents 20–40% of a commercial building's total electricity consumption. Older fluorescent T8 and T12 tubes, HID high-bay fixtures, and incandescent lamps are dramatically less efficient than modern LED alternatives. A lighting upgrade is often the single fastest-payback energy improvement available to a commercial property.
Through EmPOWER Maryland, your utility will cover 75–80% of the project cost through rebates. Additionally, instant point-of-purchase discounts are available at participating distributors — no application required. Maryland Smart Energy handles the rebate application and guides you through both pathways.
What Lighting Can Be Upgraded?
Instant Discounts vs. Rebates
Instant Point-of-Purchase Discounts: No application required. Simply purchase qualifying LED products at a participating distributor (Graybar, Rexel, Bay Lighting, etc.) and the discount is applied at checkout. Discount amounts vary by product type:
| Product Type | Instant Discount |
|---|---|
| CFL/LED Lamps (CFLEDs) | $9/unit |
| LED Tube Replacements (TLEDs) | $8/unit |
| LED High-Bay Fixtures (HLEDs) | $90–$120/unit |
| LED ENERGY STAR Fixtures | $15–$25/unit |
| LED Luminaires | $20–$350/unit |
Rebate Program: For larger projects, our team applies for formal utility rebates covering up to 80% of total project costs. This pathway is best for comprehensive retrofits of 50+ fixtures.
Rebate Rates by Utility
| Utility | Rebate Coverage | Instant Discounts |
|---|---|---|
| BGE | Up to 75–80% | Yes — participating distributors |
| Pepco | Up to 80% | Yes — TLEDs, HLEDs, luminaires |
| Delmarva Power | Up to 80% | Yes — at participating distributors |
| SMECO | Up to 75% | Yes — $5–$150 per fixture |
How to Get Your Free Lighting Upgrade
- 1Free Lighting AssessmentOur team visits your facility to audit all existing fixtures, calculate energy savings from LED replacement, and identify the best combination of instant discounts and rebates.
- 2Product Selection & ProcurementWe specify the appropriate LED products for your application — ensuring optimal light levels, color temperature, and CRI for your space type (office, warehouse, retail, etc.).
- 3InstallationLicensed electricians install all fixtures. Work is coordinated to minimize disruption to your operations. Most small-to-medium retrofits complete in 1–2 days.
- 4Rebate Application & SavingsWe submit all documentation to your utility. Savings begin immediately — typically a 50–90% reduction in lighting energy costs visible on your very next electric bill.