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See What Energy Efficiency Funding is Actually Doing for Maryland

June 22, 2015 Written by  Comments Print
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Maryland is on track towards greater levels of energy efficiency than it's ever seen. Even better news, if things keep progressing at their current rates, Maryland could soon be one of the leading states in energy efficiency. And with the recent merger of Exelon and Pepco utilities, many energy customers will soon see even more energy efficiency benefits, including benefits specifically targeted for low-income multifamily housing. Learn more about how Maryland is becoming ever greener in our blog!

 

See What Energy Efficiency Funding is Actually Doing for Maryland

 

Hitting Energy Efficiency Goals

The EmPower Maryland initiative is on track to meet its goal of reducing energy usage in the state. The initiative was launched 7 years ago with the goal of cutting energy use in Maryland 15% by 2015. According to the Maryland Energy Administration, we're 80% of the way towards meeting that goal.

Low-income energy efficiency programs like the Maryland Energy Efficiency and Housing Affordability (MEEHA) program are also generating meaningful results. MEEHA seeks to improve energy efficiency levels in multifamily housing. Data from the Department of Housing and Community Development showed that during the 2012-2014 EmPower cycle, MEEHA was allocated $12.5 million. These funds helped 3,704 households receive upgrades, and an additional 1,709 are under construction. Altogether, the program saved 7,000 megawatt-hours of energy annually.

What's more, we're using less electricity than we have in more than a decade. “In 2014 Maryland had the lowest per capita electricity consumption since 1990,” according to the National Resources Defense Council. “In absolute terms, our consumption was down to the same level as 2001.”

Exelon Pepco Merger Brings New Efficiency Initiatives

The recent merger of Exelon and Pepco utilities was approved by the Maryland Public Service Commission (MPSC) last month. In approving the merger, regulators will require the new business entity to make significant investments in energy efficiency, with a number of initiatives that will specifically target residents and owners of low-income multifamily housing. The merger has also been approved in New Jersey, and is awaiting approval in Delaware and D.C. Here are a few examples of initiatives that would go into effect, from Energy Efficiency for All.

  • Exelon must invest $8.6 million in energy efficiency programs targeted to low and moderate income households, including renters.

  • “$4.2 million for energy efficiency investments in multifamily affordable housing.”

  • A $14.4 million Green Sustainability Fund for stimulating investment in energy efficient energy technology.

  • 20% of this fund must go to “interest-free loans to 501(c)(3) organizations, similar charitable organizations, and, specifically, affordable multifamily housing.”

  • “Improved access to energy consumption data and support for setting accurate utility allowances.”

  • Debt forgiveness – “Pepco and Delmarva Power will forgive all residential customer accounts receivable over two years old as of the date of the Merger closing, a cost estimated at $647,156.”

Affordable Housing Energy Efficiency Consulting from greeNEWit

From property assessments to utility allowances to retrofit project management, greeNEWit offers comprehensive energy efficiency consulting services for public and private multifamily affordable housing owners. Contact us today to learn how we can help you navigate new standards and realize energy efficiency savings.

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