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Ever get those parental flashbacks of being told to stop leaving the lights on? It turns out our parents were the OG energy savers, paving the way for BGE’s Home Energy Reports to show us how to save both energy and cash.
You know the reports that show your energy use compared to your “neighbors,” indicating how well you are saving energy. Some customers love the challenges, tips, and affirmations they receive. We’re not kidding. In survey after survey, the Home Energy Reports get a positive response. Still, some feel the report is confusing and frustrating. BGE is committed to ensuring that all customers find their Home Energy Reports helpful and valuable. So, with that in mind, here are the basics of BGE’s Home Energy Report.
What’s on the report?
The Home Energy Report is delivered by mail or email and puts the control and monitoring of your energy efficiency in your hands. Each report provides the following information:
- A standardized comparison or “neighbor” comparison that helps customers understand how their home is performing relative to similar homes, but not necessarily your next-door neighbors. (More on that later.)
- Personalized steps to take to become more energy efficient.
- Personal tracking lets you see how your home’s energy usage compares over time and across seasons.
- A Marketing Module that includes information on rebates and other programs BGE offers.
The rating system
The Home Energy Reports also provide a unique and easy-to-read rating system. If you’re conserving energy and your efficiency is stellar, you will receive a Great rating. If your energy efficiency is excellent but comparable homes do a better job conserving energy, you’ll receive a Good rating. And if you need some help with your energy conservation, you will receive a Fair rating.
Are you a customer who can’t seem to get out of a Fair or Good rating? Do you want to get that excellent rating and keep it? Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- The “similar homes” listed on your report aren’t typically your next-door neighbors.
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BGE can search up to 5-10 miles to find the most accurate set of neighbors.
- BGE compares your energy use to the average use of households similar in size, home type, house age, heating system type, and number of occupants.
- Complete the quick Home Energy Analysis survey on BGE.com for the most accurate comparison. This analysis will ensure BGE has the correct and most up-to-date information available for your home.
- As your progress is tracked, you’ll receive personalized energy efficiency tips that include actions you can take to lower your energy use and save money on your bills.
Need help finding, understanding, and applying for energy and financial assistance? BGE’s self-service online, Assistance Finder, gives residential customers a new way to explore and receive personalized energy assistance program recommendations.
And don’t forget, BGE also provides year-round energy savings tips that can save customers money and energy, free home energy assessments, and rebates and discounts on energy-saving products.
This program supports EmPOWER Maryland. EmPOWER programs are funded by a charge on your energy bill. EmPOWER programs can help you reduce your energy consumption and save you money. To learn more about EmPOWER and how you can participate, go to BGESmartEnergy.com