How Much Does Weatherization Save in Maryland?
The True Impact on Ratepayers, Taxpayers, and Maryland Homeowners
Energy costs continue to rise across the country, and Maryland is no exception. With increasing demand on the grid, an aging housing stock, and a humid mid-Atlantic climate, Maryland households are spending more on heating, cooling, and electricity than many other states.
That’s why
Weatherization Assistance Programs and Maryland’s ratepayer-funded energy efficiency programs (like those under
EmPOWER Maryland) are so valuable. They reduce overall grid demand (saving
BILLIONS in infrastructure costs and tax-payer dollars), improve public health, and increase comfort state-wide.
So, how much does weatherization really save in Maryland?
Let’s break it down by:
- Savings for Maryland ratepayers
- Savings for Maryland taxpayers
- Savings for homeowners and renters whose homes are weatherized
Weatherization Saves Maryland Ratepayers — Big Time
Weatherization programs in Maryland reduce statewide electricity and natural gas usage. When demand is reduced, we all pay less, not just the people receiving the upgrades.
Reduced Energy Demand Lowers Utility Costs for Everyone
Every kilowatt saved through Weatherization is a kilowatt Maryland utilities don’t need to generate or buy during peak periods. Maryland’s EmPOWER programs routinely show:
- Every dollar invested in EmPOWER Maryland returns
$1.81 in benefits for Marylanders.
- Lower peak load on the grid
- Reduced investment in new power plants
- Reduced transmission and distribution costs
- Combined with other energy initiatives, EmPOWER Maryland has helped
21,000 low-income households save $340 annually on their electric bills
- Maryland could gain more than
68,000 new jobs and $3.75 billion in new gross domestic product as a result of investments through 2027 through the EmPOWER Maryland.
Those savings are passed on to all ratepayers — homeowners, renters, and businesses alike.
**📊 The Numbers:
A typical EmPOWER Maryland energy efficiency upgrade results in:
- Average of $340 annually in electric bill savings
- Long-term avoided infrastructure costs that reduce future rate increases
- Reduced outages and grid strain during heat waves
So even Maryland residents who never receive Weatherization services still benefit financially.
Weatherization Saves Maryland Taxpayers
Maryland receives federal funding (DOE Weatherization Assistance Program + LIHEAP funding) and supplements it with state-level energy programs. Weatherization reduces strain on public programs and improves long-term outcomes, which means a lower cost to taxpayers.
Reduced LIHEAP + Emergency Energy Assistance Costs
When homes become energy efficient, they require fewer:
- winter heating subsidies
- emergency home repair funds
- crisis energy payments
- utility shutoff assistance costs
Maryland saves millions each year because weatherized homes are less likely to need these services.
Lower Healthcare Costs
The CDC and DOE both show Weatherization produces measurable health benefits:
- reduced asthma attacks
- fewer ER visits
- reduced respiratory symptoms
- lower mold exposure
- decreased carbon monoxide risk
These health improvements translate into:
- lower Medicaid spending
- fewer missed workdays
- reduced healthcare system strain
Improved Housing Stock Lowers Public Expenditures
Weatherization makes Maryland homes:
- safer
- more durable
- less likely to require structural repair
- better equipped for future energy upgrades
That reduces the long-term burden on state-funded housing programs.
How Do Maryland Homeowners and Renters Benefit Personally?
This is where Weatherization shines brightest. For the households receiving services, the savings are tangible, immediate, and long-lasting.
Utility Bill Savings for Weatherized Homes
On average, Maryland homeowners or renters who complete Weatherization Save:
💡 Electric Savings
$340 annually in electric bill savings
Through high-efficiency lighting, appliances, and HVAC tune-ups.
Comfort, Health, and Durability Benefits
Not all savings are financial, many are lifestyle improvements that Marylander’s really value.
Health improvements include:
- fewer asthma triggers
- reduced mold exposure
- better indoor air quality
- stable humidity levels
- reduced drafts and cold floors
- improved respiratory health
These improvements can reduce ongoing medical expenses for many families and all Maryland residents.
Home durability improvements include:
- reduced rot and moisture damage
- fewer plumbing freeze risks
- improved HVAC lifespan
- protection from mold growth
- reduced pest intrusion
These benefits can save thousands in avoided repairs and maintain our existing housing stock.
Increased Property Values
Weatherized homes in Maryland are:
- more marketable
- more comfortable
- cheaper to operate
- increasingly sought after by energy-conscious buyers
Studies show energy-efficient homes can sell for
2–8% more than similar non-weatherized homes.
For a $350,000 Maryland home, that adds:
👉 $7,000 – $28,000 in resale value
Maryland’s programs fund a combination of high-impact upgrades, including:
Air Sealing
- Stopping uncontrolled drafts and sealing leaks around the envelope.
- Attic insulation
- Crawlspace insulation
- Rim joist insulation
- Wall insulation (where applicable)
HVAC Tune-Ups or Replacements
- Improving efficiency and reducing energy consumption.
- Replacing and upgrading outdated equipment with ENERGY STAR qualified systems
Humidity + Moisture Control
Ventilation Upgrades
- Ensuring safe, balanced airflow and reducing moisture.
High-Efficiency Lighting & Appliances
- Lowering electric consumption.
Health & Safety Work
- CO testing
- smoke/CO alarm installation
- venting corrections
- addressing mold/moisture concerns
These improvements work together to deliver meaningful energy savings.
Who Qualifies for Weatherization Savings in Maryland?
Maryland Weatherization benefits:
- low-income homeowners
- renters
- elderly residents
- individuals with health concerns
- families receiving energy assistance
Programs include:
The Bottom Line: Weatherization Works
Weatherization is one of the
highest-value home improvements available in Maryland today. When done correctly, it delivers:
For Maryland Ratepayers:
✔ lower statewide utility costs
✔ reduced grid strain
✔ fewer infrastructure upgrades
✔ lower peak demand
For Maryland Taxpayers:
✔ lower LIHEAP + emergency assistance costs
✔ improved public health
✔ stronger housing stock
✔ reduced long-term state expenditures
For Homeowners and Renters:
✔ annual utility savings
✔ better comfort and air quality
✔ lower repair costs
✔ increased home value
Weatherization is more than an energy upgrade, it’s a long-term investment in Maryland’s future.
Ready to Improve Your Home’s Comfort and Efficiency?
FLC Energy is
Delmarva’s Home Performance Company, with more than 30 years of experience improving:
- comfort
- indoor air quality
- humidity control
- crawlspace health
- insulation
- energy efficiency
If you’re ready to upgrade your home or need help navigating Maryland’s weatherization options:

📞
#CallFLC at 410-860-8410
