Note: The eligible technologies listed above are only examples of some improvements that might be supported under this program as detailed on the program web site. Not all potentially eligible improvements will be appropriate for all participants and activities may be limited to services rather than outright equipment replacement (e.g., re-tuning rather than replacing a furnace).

The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) EmPOWER Maryland Low Income Energy Efficiency Program helps qualifying low-income residents increase the energy efficiency of their homes at no cost to program participants.

Eligibility

The program is available to state residents that have a household income that is less than or equal to 200% of the federal poverty level and are customers of utilities that participate in the broader EmPOWER Maryland initiative (BGE, Delmarva, PE, Pepco and SMECO). Residents must be able to prove ownership of their home in order to qualify. If the resident is a renter, the landlord must be able to prove ownership of the residence and agree to participate in the program. The table provides eligibility guidelines based on annual household income:

Program Description

In order to participate in the program, residents must apply through the appropriate local agency or submit an online application (see program web site for details). Once an applicant has been deemed eligible for the program, an energy audit will be performed on the home to identify appropriate energy efficiency improvements. Improvements may include attic, floor and wall insulation; lighting upgrades; hot water system improvements; furnace cleaning, tuning, and safety repairs; refrigerator retrofits; and health and safety measures. After the appropriate improvements have been selected, a contractor will visit the home to complete the recommended work, at no cost to the resident. Participants may also receive guidance on saving energy with behavioral changes. After the work has been completed, a post-installation evaluation will be performed to ensure that the home continues to operate efficiently.

Please see the program web site for application information and further details on income eligibility criteria.