ANNAPOLIS, Md. — Governor Wes Moore announced on July 6, 2025, that eligible Maryland households will receive increased energy assistance benefits through the Maryland Department of Human Services Office of Home Energy Programs. The enhanced benefits, supported by increased funding from the Strategic Energy Investment Fund, aim to help families manage rising energy costs in Fiscal Year 2026. Households already enrolled in certain federal and state programs are automatically eligible, while others can apply online.
Governor Moore emphasized the state’s commitment to supporting residents, stating, “At a time when the federal government is passing dangerous, heartless legislation to cut assistance for working families, we are standing in the breach. Not a day goes by without me hearing from Marylanders calling for support tackling the rising cost of energy we see nationwide. Today, we extend a hand to them, as a critical part of our work to make Maryland more affordable. We will not waver in our work to protect our people and leave no one behind.”
The increased benefits will significantly raise assistance levels. Households that received $130 to $575 in electric benefits last year will now receive $250 to $1,000, and those receiving $150 to $301 in gas benefits will get $300 to $550 in Fiscal Year 2026. Automatic eligibility applies to households enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), and Income-Based Veterans Affairs Benefits. Marylanders not automatically eligible can submit new applications at [MarylandBenefits.gov].
Maryland Department of Human Services Secretary Rafael López highlighted the urgency of the program, saying, “With rising temperatures and soaring energy costs, too many Marylanders are worried about keeping their homes safe and liveable year-round. We will do all we can to step up and support families who must choose between buying groceries and paying their electricity bills.”
The expansion follows legislative changes signed into law by Governor Moore in 2023 through HB323, which broadened automatic eligibility for energy assistance. As of May 2025, the Office of Home Energy Programs processed over 156,000 applications for Fiscal Year 2025, approving benefits for more than 117,000 households. The increased funding and streamlined eligibility aim to reach more families facing financial strain from energy expenses.
The Office of Home Energy Programs administers several initiatives, including the Electric Universal Service Program and the Maryland Energy Assistance Program, which provide bill payment assistance and emergency support. The Strategic Energy Investment Fund, bolstered by state appropriations, supports these efforts by financing energy efficiency and assistance programs. Marylanders seeking details can visit the Office of Home Energy Programs website or contact their local Department of Social Services.
The state’s proactive measures address nationwide energy cost increases, driven by inflation and supply chain challenges. By prioritizing low-income households, the program seeks to ensure equitable access to essential utilities. The application process, available online and through local offices, is designed to be accessible, with support staff available to assist applicants. The initiative reflects Maryland’s broader goal of reducing economic burdens for vulnerable residents.
