Maryland Del. Kathy Szeliga Warns Energy Policy Could Drive Up Costs

Republican lawmaker calls for ending state's EmPOWER efficiency program to lower skyrocketing utility bills

Mar. 26, 2026 at 1:07am

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As Maryland lawmakers look at options to lower soaring energy bills, Republican Del. Kathy Szeliga is calling for the state to end its EmPOWER energy efficiency program, which is funded by a monthly surcharge on ratepayers' utility bills. Szeliga argues the program is being run like a credit card and that the state should instead pay it off and shut it down.

Why it matters

Energy costs have become a major political issue in Maryland, with residents facing steep increases in their utility bills. Szeliga's call to end the EmPOWER program reflects a broader debate over the state's energy policy and the balance between efficiency initiatives and keeping costs down for consumers.

The details

Szeliga, who represents Baltimore County, told WBAL radio that Maryland is currently importing 40% of its energy from Pennsylvania, which uses fossil fuels. She warned that if the state continues on its current path, it could be importing up to 80% of its power. Szeliga also noted that Pennsylvania has floated the possibility of leaving the regional grid, which could further drive up prices in Maryland.

  • The Maryland Freedom Caucus is currently calling for the state to end the EmPOWER program.

The players

Kathy Szeliga

A Republican member of the Maryland House of Delegates representing Baltimore County.

EmPOWER Maryland

An energy efficiency program funded by a monthly surcharge on ratepayers' utility bills.

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What they’re saying

“We are making the minimum credit card payment on this program and what they need to do is take SEFI, which is a tax on energy producers, pay the program off and shut it down.”

— Kathy Szeliga, Maryland Delegate

“If we continue down the road we are on, we will be importing 80% of our power.”

— Kathy Szeliga, Maryland Delegate

What’s next

The Maryland Freedom Caucus is expected to continue pushing for the state to end the EmPOWER program in the coming legislative sessions.

The takeaway

This debate over Maryland's energy policy highlights the broader tensions between environmental initiatives and keeping utility costs affordable for residents, with lawmakers like Szeliga arguing that the state's current approach is driving up prices too much.