As temperatures cool and energy costs remain hot, Maryland’s Office of Home Energy Program has served thousands more households in 2026 compared to 2025.
“Every Marylander deserves to feel safe and comfortable in their own home, but we know that rising energy costs are putting real pressure on families across our state, especially as temperatures drop,” Gov. Wes Moore said.
Maryland has served nearly 150,000 households in fiscal year 2026 through home energy assistance programs.
“Our administration is tackling Maryland family energy bills on every front— from delivering direct relief to Maryland ratepayers to holding utility companies accountable and expanding access to assistance for families who need it,” Moore said. “We are proud to see our efforts are helping more Marylanders than ever through these programs and we will continue to deliver real relief through this Winter and beyond.”
OHEP doled out more than $131 million worth of assistance to 131,396 households through the Maryland Energy Assistance Program and the Electric Universal Service Program in fiscal year 2025.
In fiscal year 2026, those same programs distributed nearly $186 million to 148,632 households – marking an increase of 13% of households served and a 42% increase in the total assistance distributed.
The Maryland Department of Human Services, which oversees OHEP, is working to streamline the application process for these programs. Through the Maryland Benefits One Application, residents can fill out a simplified application to more easily apply for and renew benefits, including energy assistance.
DHS is also working to match households already receiving benefits through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) with energy assistance programs.
“Behind every one of these numbers is a Maryland household that received critical assistance to keep the lights on and their family warm this Winter,” said Stacy L. Rodgers, acting secretary of the Maryland Department of Human Services. “OHEP is working every day to reach more eligible Marylanders and connect them with resources to help pay their heating and electric bills. We want every Marylander to know that help is available and that no one should have to face the winter without access to the support they need.”
During OHEP’s winter crisis season from Nov. 1 through March 31, eligible households experiencing a heating crisis may qualify for a one-time grant of up to $600 to help restore heat.
“As a former customer, I know firsthand that the assistance we offer can provide a vital lifeline to Marylanders as the seasons change and budgets stretch,” said OHEP Executive Director Dr. Rigel Moore. “We will continue to step up to meet customers’ increased needs across the state — and I hope Marylanders will visit our website to check their eligibility for assistance.”
Both homeowners and renters may qualify for assistance. Eligibility is primarily based on household size and income.
To learn more about available assistance, Marylanders experiencing a heating emergency should contact their local OHEP office or visit OHEP’s website.
