AEE Applauds Extension of Maryland’s Successful Energy Efficiency Program

Annapolis, Md., April 6, 2017 — Today Advanced Energy Economy (AEE) released the following statement applauding enactment of Senate Bill 184 into law. The bill passed by the legislature last week extends the EmPOWER Maryland energy efficiency program through 2023, a program that has saved state electricity customers more than $4 billion from 2008-2015, according to a recent Maryland's Public Service Commission report. Gov. Hogan allowed the bill to become law without his signature as of today. 

“We commend Maryland's legislature for extending the successful EmPOWER Maryland efficiency program,” said Malcolm Woolf, senior vice president of policy and government affairs with national business group, Advanced Energy Economy. “To date, EmPOWER Maryland has saved customers more than $4 billion on their electricity bills, helped avoid expensive new generation and transmission, and supported more than 67,000 full or part-time energy efficiency jobs in the state. By providing the investment certainty, the law furthers Maryland’s efforts to enhance its energy productivity.”

“Extending EmPOWER Maryland for six more years is a clear signal that Maryland is open for business in energy efficiency, which remains the lowest-cost strategy to meet the state's energy needs,” said Matthew Ware, vice president of energy operations south for Veolia North America. 

“Veolia North America looks forward to continuing our support for Maryland's growth and resiliency through microgrids and district energy systems,” Ware added.

EmPOWER Maryland helps homeowners and businesses save energy by offering them technical assistance and incentives to take steps such as replacing light bulbs, installing efficient appliances, adding insulation and sealing air leaks.

"We look forward to working with Maryland's Public Service Commission on implementing this extension of EmPOWER Maryland—a certain win-win for companies and customers across the state," said Woolf.

Background Materials:

• Mar. 28: Businesses, Trade Associations Urge Maryland Gov. to Sign Energy Efficiency Bill statement is here.
• Mar. 28: Maryland employers' letter to Gov. Hogan urging he sign bill supporting EmPOWER Maryland energy efficiency program is here.
• EmPOWER Maryland backgrounder is here.

About Advanced Energy Economy
Advanced Energy Economy (AEE) is a national association of businesses that are making the energy we use secure, clean, and affordable. Advanced energy encompasses a broad range of products and services that constitute the best available technologies for meeting energy needs today and tomorrow. AEE’s mission is to transform public policy to enable rapid growth of advanced energy businesses. AEE and its State and Regional Partner organizations are active in 27 states across the country, representing more than 1,000 companies and organizations in the advanced energy industry. Visit AEE online at www.aee.net.