Compare Maryland Electric Prices

Maryland deregulated its energy market in 1999. Since then, customers and businesses in the Old Line State have had the power to choose their own electricity and natural gas suppliers and rate plans. Deregulation introduced competition into the energy market, enabling retail suppliers to offer competitive pricing and plan features to win customers. 

In Maryland and other states with deregulated markets, customers have the opportunity to save on their energy costs by shopping strategically and comparing plans. Savvy shoppers can save big by signing up for a new plan when Maryland electricity rates are low, such as during low-demand seasons like spring and fall.

Deregulation doesn’t mean there is no oversight in Maryland, however. 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 from Maryland energy providers.

Navigating a deregulated energy market can be a confusing process, especially on your own. At Choose Energy, we provide a one-stop shop to help you understand energy deregulation and select the Maryland 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 secure your Maryland electricity 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 having to pay a deposit, instead letting you pay for your energy service upfront.
• Are there different renewable energy plans? Many Maryland electricity suppliers offer a percentage of renewable energy in their plans, and the state requires that all plans feature at least 50% green energy, whether from solar or other sources, by 2030. To browse 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 you live in Maryland, this may be one of a wide variety of electric and gas utility companies.

One of the more confusing aspects of deregulation is that, unless you buy directly from your utility, 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 a different utility company, which is responsible for maintaining the power lines and infrastructure. Even if you decide to buy energy from a different Maryland energy provider, you have to 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, making it a good idea to compare the best electricity plans in Maryland before you sign up. You can even search for your utility company’s price to compare to find out how it stacks up against options from retail suppliers in your area.

Finding the right electricity and natural gas plans is easy with Choose Energy, and it’s one of the best ways to secure Maryland electricity savings. 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. You can quickly compare electricity rates in Maryland and filter your results based on your typical energy usage, rate type, term length, and more.
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 or service transfer. 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 Maryland energy 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 good option, 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, so sure to shop for cheap electricity in Maryland if you’re trying to lower your bill.