The state of Maryland began offering their residents the power to choose their own electricity provider in 1999. Thanks to the passing of a new bill, most business and residential property owners were given the opportunity to shop for their own energy provider, instead of receiving their electricity through their state-appointed utility.

This change within the state brought dozens of retail energy providers to Maryland, all of whom attempt to offer the most competitive rates and packages for state-wide electricity consumers. These consumers are not only able to save on their monthly energy costs by shopping for lower rates, but many are able to take advantage green energy options, and choose to have their electricity come from renewable energy sources.

Any Maryland resident residing within the deregulated portion of the state has the power to choose their preferred energy provider. The deregulated area of Maryland is split into four utilities:

Baltimore Gas and Electric (BGE) – Serves Baltimore City and Baltimore County as well as Anne Arundel County, Carroll County, Howard County, Montgomery County and other surrounding communities.

Delmarva Power – Covers the Eastern Shore of Maryland.

Potomac Edison – Covers Frederick County, Washington County and Allegheny County as well as portions of Montgomery County, Carroll County and Howard County.

Potomac Electric Power Company (PEPCO) – Provides services to most of Montgomery County, Prince George?s County and the District of Columbia.

There are dozens of electricity providers that now service properties within these utilities. While customers are able to shop for rates from independent providers, the state still governs certain aspects of the energy market.

This means, residents can still rely on their utility to fix issues with broken or damaged power lines. It also means that Marylanders who do want to switch their energy service can do so in confidence, knowing they will not experience an interruption in their service.

Many residents of Maryland have already taken advantage of the state’s deregulated system. However, there are many within the state that have not switched to a retail provider. These residents were simply kept on their state-appointed utility service’s billing cycle. While these residents continue to receive quality energy service, many of these individuals are actually overpaying on their monthly energy bills.

Deregulation in Maryland has opened a number of opportunities for residents and business owners to not only enjoy lower rates, but to take advantage of benefits such as short-term plans, variable or fixed rates and green energy options.

We work to help Maryland customers to learn more about their available electricity opportunities. We can help those living in Maryland determine their eligibility for deregulated service and help them see a list of qualified area providers. This list provides Maryland consumers with information on different providers and available rates and plans.