CALLING FOR EFFICIENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY—On the eve of a 50 percent utility rate hike, Maryland PIRG called on Maryland’s leaders to invest in energy efficiency and rewrite the rules to hold utility companies accountable to the public.

Throughout the spring, Maryland PIRG urged our leaders to adopt a smarter energy policy—measures that will reduce our energy consumption and save us money.

Our staff and volunteers collected more than a thousand postcards from concerned citizens, garnered media coverage in more than 40 outlets, and submitted comments to the Public Service Commission about how energy efficiency can help lower utility bills, ensure reliable electric service, and reduce pollution.

In July, our hard work paid off, as Gov. O’Malley announced plans to reduce Maryland’s energy use 15 percent by 2015.

“We applaud Gov. O’Malley for setting an energy-efficiency goal that positions Maryland as a national front-runner in smarter energy use,” said Maryland PIRG Policy Advocate Johanna Neumann.

Prioritizing Efficiency
New energy-efficiency standards are the fastest, cheapest way to get our energy use under control. Switching out your conventional light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs and replacing old appliances with more efficient equipment can save hundreds of dollars on utility bills every year. We can also have a big impact by making sure our homes and businesses are well-insulated.

Real change won’t happen overnight, though. State agencies will have to work together to reach the 15 percent goal, and they’ll need full cooperation from the utility companies.

Maryland PIRG will continue working to convince our leaders and pressure the big utilities to adopt energy efficiency programs that benefit consumers.