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PSC approves SMECO’s request to end three Empower Maryland programs, allow $250,000 reserve
Summary
Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative told the commission that declining participation and rising costs justify sunsetting three Empower Maryland programs (Energy Perks, MyEnergyTarget and SMECO’s online marketplace); the commission approved the request and allowed SMECO to retain a $250,000 reserve pending possible Energy Star federal changes.
The Public Service Commission on Aug. 27 granted Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative’s request to sunset three Empower Maryland programs — Energy Perks (online lessons), the SMECO online marketplace (retail couponing for efficient appliances) and MyEnergyTarget (behavioral residential program) — citing reduced participation, lower savings and rising costs.
Staff said participation and program savings have fallen and that the online marketplace’s costs have risen roughly 80% since February 2021. SMECO estimated ending the programs would reduce the Empower Maryland surcharge budget and translate into about $1.37 monthly savings for the average residential customer. SMECO asked the commission for permission to retain $250,000 as a reserve to manage a potential end to the federal Energy Star retail products platform; SMECO said any unused funds would be returned to members via the program true-up mechanism.
SMECO and staff said sunsetting the three programs would not impair the cooperative’s ability to meet its 2024–26 energy‑reduction goals. Office of People’s Counsel did not object to the request and reiterated that greenhouse‑gas reduction should not be pursued to the exclusion of cost‑effective energy efficiency. The commission approved SMECO’s request; commissioners voted aye.
Why it matters: the decision reduces ongoing program costs to SMECO members and allows the cooperative to redirect administrative attention and funds amid changing federal program structures and declining program participation.
Vote: commission approved the sunsetting motion unanimously.
