Program Status
Q: Is the EmPOWER program still available?
A: Yes. EmPOWER Maryland programs remain fully available through December 31, 2026. We encourage you to take advantage of available rebates and incentives while the program is active.
Q: Why is the program ending?
A: The Maryland General Assembly passed legislation that changes how energy efficiency programs are structured going forward. As a result, Washington Gas will conclude its EmPOWER participation at the end of 2026.
Q: Will the program come back?
A: We do not have information about future program offerings at this time. We encourage you to participate now while incentives and rebates are still available.
Eligibility and Deadlines
Q: When is the last day I can apply for a rebate or incentive?
A: We encourage you to submit applications as soon as possible. To be considered for available rebates and incentives, applications must be submitted no later than November 1, 2026, for Commercial incentive projects and December 1, 2026, for Residential rebate projects. Starting your project early gives you the best chance of completing all requirements within the eligible program window.
Q: What if my project is not finished by December 31?
A: The Washington Gas EmPOWER Maryland programs will conclude on December 31, 2026. Commercial & Industrial (C&I) applications must be submitted by November 1, 2026. Projects that are not fully processed by year-end may continue through normal closeout and payment activities in 2027. Customers should submit closeout documentation as soon as it becomes available to support timely processing.
Q: Can I still get a rebate or an incentive if I apply now?
A: Yes. The program is fully active and accepting applications. However, applications must be submitted by November 1, 2026, for Commercial projects and December 1, 2026, for Residential projects. We encourage you to begin the process as soon as possible to allow adequate time for project completion and application review.
Rebate Processing and Payment
Q: How long does it take to receive my rebate?
A: Rebate processing typically takes several weeks after a complete application is submitted. Processing times may vary depending on the type of project and the volume of applications received.
Q: Will I still get paid if my rebate is processed after December 31?
A: While the EmPOWER Maryland program cycle ends on December 31, 2026, eligible projects may continue through review, verification, incentive processing, and payment activities during 2027. Incentive payments are typically issued within 6-8 weeks of final approval. Please be advised that processing times may vary depending on the volume of applications, but all remaining project incentives must be paid out no later than December 31, 2027.
Contractors and Participation Process
Q: How do I find a participating contractor?
A: You can visit our website or contact us directly for a list of participating contractors in your area. We recommend reaching out soon to ensure availability during the remaining program period.
Q: My contractor told me the program is already over. Is that true?
A: No. The EmPOWER Maryland programs remain fully active through December 31, 2026. We encourage you to participate while rebate and incentives are still available. If you have questions about your contractor's guidance, please contact us directly and we can help clarify.
General / Catch-All
Q: I heard the program is changing. What does that mean for me?
A: The Washington Gas EmPOWER Maryland Programs are scheduled to conclude on December 31, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time, making it important for all participants to understand and plan for upcoming program deadlines. For customers, this means now is the time to move forward with planned energy-efficiency projects and submit applications as early as possible. For contractors, engineers, and other service providers, it means helping your clients identify eligible opportunities, submit applications before either the C&I deadline of November 1, 2026 or the Residential deadline of December 1, 2026, and complete project closeout requirements in a timely manner. Early action helps ensure adequate time for review, preapproval, project completion, and incentive processing, while reducing the risks of delays as the program approaches its conclusion.
Q: Who can I talk to if I have more detailed questions?
A: You can contact us at 1-833-286-0860 or visit Programs and Rebates | Washington Gas for more information. If your question requires additional details, we can connect you with the appropriate team member.