Compare Maryland natural gas and electricity rates

Key points:

• Maryland has had a deregulated energy market for electricity and natural gas since 1999.
• Deregulation allows providers to offer competitive rates and plans for customers.
• You can shop for plans and compare rates from multiple providers with Choose Energy by entering your ZIP code.

Deregulation can be a confusing term, but it simply means that you can purchase energy from your choice of suppliers or from your utility. In deregulated markets, you can take advantage of energy price fluctuations if you buy at the right time. 

Maryland deregulated its energy market in 1999, allowing private companies to sell electricity to residents and businesses. Natural gas is also deregulated, which means that Maryland natural gas prices are competitive across suppliers just like electricity rates.

Public utilities are regulated by the Maryland Public Service Commission. Customers can contact the Consumer Affairs Division at (410) 767-8043 to report any disputes about services or pricing.

At Choose Energy, we provide a one-stop shop to help you understand energy deregulation and select the energy provider and rate plan that work best for you. Here is some basic information to help you start the process:

• What is the difference between a fixed-rate, variable-rate, and prepaid plan? Fixed-rate plans lock in your electricity-supply rate for the length of your contract (usually 12–36 months). Variable-rate plans give you more flexibility to end your service anytime, but your rate can go up based on the volatile electricity market. Prepaid plans allow you to avoid making a deposit and instead pay for your energy service up front.
• Are there different renewable energy plans? Many Maryland electricity suppliers offer some renewable energy in their plan, and the state requires that all plans feature at least 50% green energy, whether from solar or other sources, by 2030. To see green energy options near you, filter your Choose Energy search results by this type of plan.
• What happens if you don’t buy energy from a supplier? If you don’t choose an energy supplier, you will default to your local utility company. Depending on where in Maryland you live, this may be one of a wide variety of electric and gas utility companies.

 

One of the more confusing things about deregulation is that the supplier you choose isn’t the company that actually delivers electricity and natural gas to your home. Each part of the state is served by one utility company, which is responsible for maintaining the power lines and infrastructure. You should call your utility if your power goes out. Some major utilities in Maryland include:

• Baltimore Gas & Electric (BGE)
• Delmarva Power
• Potomac Edison Company
• Potomac Electric Power Company (PEPCO)

Unlike your utility, you have the power to choose your retail supplier. In Maryland, notable suppliers include Constellation Energy and Direct Energy. Depending on your ZIP code, you may have other choices. The supplier you select will set your Maryland electricity rates and provide your service.

Finding the right electricity and natural gas plans is easy with Choose Energy. All you need to do is follow three easy steps:

1. Enter your ZIP code for a list of suppliers and plans available in your area.
2. Choose your supplier and plan based on your budget and energy needs.
3. Sign up online or by phone. Your new supplier will arrange your setup. You won’t need to change meters and shouldn’t experience an interruption in service.

How long does it take to switch energy providers?

You can find a new provider and plan in minutes with Choose Energy’s free marketplace. Once you select a plan and sign up, your new service should switch on the next billing cycle (within 30–60 days).

Is a deposit required for my energy plan?

If your credit score isn’t especially high, you may have to pay a deposit to get your service started. To avoid this, filter your search results for no-deposit plans on our marketplace. These plans typically allow you to prepay for your electricity or gas, but rates may be higher than those on traditional plans.

How can I lower my electric bill?

Lowering your usage is always a smart choice, and we have some tips to help you do that, including maintaining your HVAC system and installing energy-efficient appliances. Switching to a different supplier can also lead to a lower rate.