Governor Wes Moore recently announced a major expansion of Maryland’s energy assistance programs that will provide increased support to approximately 200,000 households facing rising utility costs.
Beginning July 1, 2026, Marylanders applying for energy assistance through the Maryland Department of Human Services’ Office of Home Energy Programs will see benefits increase by as much as 32%, along with expanded eligibility and a simplified application process.
The new benefit structure is designed to offset up to 55% of annual heating costs and up to 47% of electric bills for vulnerable households. Assistance amounts will vary based on household size, utility usage, and financial circumstances, with lower-income households receiving the largest increases in support.
“In our region and across the country, the rising cost of energy has gotten out of control — but no family should have to choose between paying their utility bill and putting food on the table,” said Governor Moore. “That’s why Maryland is cutting through red tape and putting more money back in the pockets of hardworking Marylanders when they need it most.”
In addition to the increased standard benefits, the state is distributing $48 million in fiscal year 2026 Electric Universal Service Program Supplemental Grants through the end of September. The grants are tiered so that households with the greatest financial need receive the largest amounts. Benefits will be applied automatically to the utility accounts of households that already received an FY 2026 Electric Universal Service Program benefit.
The state is also working to make energy assistance easier to access. Residents applying through the Maryland Benefits One Application portal will find a streamlined application intended to simplify enrollment. The Department of Human Services has also expanded automated data matching to connect households receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or Temporary Cash Assistance benefits with available energy assistance programs.
The expansion also follows the passage of House Bill 1532, which removes barriers that previously prevented some households from receiving state-funded utility assistance. The legislation extends access to support through the Electric Universal Service Program for households that contribute to Maryland’s economy but do not qualify for federal energy assistance programs.
Additionally, the Office of Home Energy Programs is launching the Maryland Fuel Assistance program to provide support to immigrant families who remain ineligible for federally funded programs, expanding access to home energy assistance throughout the state.
