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If you think your electric meter is not reading your usage correctly, you have options.
First, ask your utility to check your meter. If you are not satisfied with their response, you can request a “Referee Test.” A representative from the Public Service Commission, not your utility company, comes out to check your meter and run the test.
A representative from the Public Service Commission will come to your property to test the meter. A written report of the results of the test will be sent to you and your utility. If the meter is found to over-register more than 2 percent, you may be eligible for a refund.
Click here to request a Referee Test.
Click here to learn more about smart meters.
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Summer weather shut-off protections
Summer weather shut-off protections state if the weather report at 6AM says it will be 95°F or hotter or feel like (heat index) 95°F or hotter (sustained) in the next 3 days, then your power can’t be turned off that day. The utility company must check the weather every day and make a new decision based on the latest forecast.
For gas, this rule only applies if you use gas to help keep your home cool (like for air conditioning) and you have told the gas company.
Visit our website for more information.
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Is your energy "clean" or just "greenwashed"? Greenwashing is when companies use misleading claims to make their services look more eco-friendly than they really are. In Maryland, these deceptive practices can actually be illegal.
Red flags to watch for:
- Vague buzzwords: Using "eco-friendly" or "natural" without explaining why.
- No proof: Making big environmental claims without sharing data or sources.
- Selective facts: Highlighting one green feature while hiding the negatives.
- Misleading photos: Using nature imagery to sell products that aren't green.
Don't let clever marketing fool you, and always look for the facts behind the labels.
Learn more about greenwashing.
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The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has conditionally approved Maryland’s applications for both Home Energy Rebate Programs under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). Additional approvals from DOE are still required before funding is received and the programs can officially launch. The Maryland Energy Administration is actively pursuing final approval and working to deliver these rebates to Marylanders as soon as possible.
When the dollars for the IRA rebates become available, the Maryland Energy Administration will post that information on their website.
To contact the Maryland Energy Administration: irarebates.mea@maryland.gov
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Want to cut your drying time? Try the Towel Trick!
How to do it:
- Toss one clean, dry bath towel into the dryer with your wet laundry.
- The dry towel quickly absorbs excess moisture, speeding up the process.
- Crucial: Remove the towel after 15–20 minutes. If left in longer, it stays damp and actually slows things down.
It’s a simple way to save energy, lower your utility bill, and reduce wear and tear on your clothes. Just don't forget to clean your lint trap first!
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For questions or assistance, contact Brandi Nieland, Director of Consumer Assistance at brandi.nieland@maryland.gov. |
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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.
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