Maryland

Although Maryland has their own wind farm in Garrett County, a nuclear power plant in Calvert County, and multiple other projects in the works to bring down the price of electricity in the state, residents are still paying over the national average for their electricity.

Deregulation of electricity can help. BG&E has been the predominant electricity provider in Maryland; therefore they’ve been able to charge residents whatever price they want! Even if you have one of the other top providers (PEPCO, Allegheny Power, or Delmarva) their prices weren’t that dissimilar. Now, with choices available to Maryland citizens, the monthly electric bill can look much better!

Read the Fine Print

Now, don’t go calling up BG&E this second and cancel your contract with them! They will still be the company supplying the electricity, fixing power outages, and providing customer service.

There are three parts of your utility bill: the generation, transmission and distribution of your electricity. When switching electricity providers the only part you are changing is the distribution; the utility company you’ve had for years still handles the generation and transmission.

Take some time to research which Maryland service providers offer the best deals and services for your households needs.

Keep in mind the following when researching and switching electricity providers:

• What is the electricity cost month to month? Would you prefer a year, or two year set contract, or would you prefer to have a variable plan? In Maryland, a variable-set plan is generally more apt to save you money in the long run (compared to the standard BG&E figures).
• Are you being any energy tax credits for using renewable energy, or are there any sign-up bonuses? Many new companies, in an effort to bring in new customers, are offering special introductory deals, travel specials, or discounts when you sign up your friends/family.
• Where is the energy coming from? If you’re seriously concerned about the environment, take action with your electricity. Sign a contract with a green electricity provider, one that creates all its energy from renewable sources.

No matter whether you realize staying with BG&E is the better track for you, or if you change to a company like Ambit or Commerce Energy, simply understanding how they will benefit your monthly electric bill means all the difference in the world!

Remember, after you compare and change providers, the only thing that changes for you are the numbers after the dollar sign on your monthly electric bill.