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December 3, 2025

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Do you have a medical condition?

If you rely on electricity for a medical condition such as oxygen, dialysis, or refrigeration for medication, you may be eligible for special protections when it comes to your gas and electricity. Whether for yourself or a loved one, understanding this process could make a critical difference in staying safe and connected. Watch the short webinar on medical certification. Read more about medical certification.

IRA tax credits ending soon

Because of recent changes in federal policy, many home energy-saving programs are ending sooner than expected. This includes tax credits for things like heat pumps, electric vehicle (EV) chargers, insulation, and solar panels. To get these benefits, most projects must be finished by December 31, 2025. Planning now can help you save money and make things easier when it's time to do your taxes.   Learn more about the IRA tax credits and rebates.

Can your utility do that?

Many people aren't aware of where responsibility lies when it comes to utility services.

• Who’s responsible if a power surge damages your appliances
• When and why utilities can (or can’t) be shut off during extreme cold
• Whether utility workers are allowed to enter your property without permission
• Who is responsible for clearing trees or debris from power lines

...and more essential insights into how utilities operate and who is responsible for what?

Watch this short and informative webinar.

Keep the heat inside this winter

Did you know there are free and low-cost programs that can help you improve your home’s energy efficiency and lower your utility bills? From weatherization and appliance upgrades to bill discounts and home energy assessments, you may qualify for programs that make a real difference. Watch this webinar hosted by our Assistant People’s Counsel, Nicole Zeichner, to learn what you need to know to tap into these programs.

Don't heat your home with your gas stove!

Heating your home with your gas stove/oven is dangerous. It is a fire and burn hazard and increases the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Maryland-American Water Company

Customers and other interested members of the public are invited to comment on the rate increase request by Maryland-American Water Company for its Bel Air and Severn water systems. Two public comment hearings will be held before the Maryland Public Service Commission as follows:

Bel Air (Harford County)
Monday, December 8, 2025, at 6 p.m.
Harford County Council Chambers
212 S. Bond Street, 2nd Floor in Bel Air

Severn (Anne Arundel County)
Monday, December 15, 2025, at 6 p.m.
Severn Center, 1160A Reece Road in Severn

Read more about the Maryland-American Water Company public hearings.

Learn more about how to participate in public hearings.

For questions or assistance, contact Brandi Nieland, Director of Consumer Assistance at brandi.nieland@maryland.gov.

   Your People's Counsel is David S. Lapp. Our team is here to help and advocate for you. We represent Maryland residential customers before the Public Service Commission and federal agencies, and we provide you assistance dealing with your utility issues, including affordable and reliable service.  

   To see what OPC is currently working on, click here for our recent press releases or click here for our media coverage.

Office of People’s Counsel  •  (410) 767-8150 / (800) 207-4055  •  www.opc.maryland.gov