Commercial Energy in Washington, DC

Based on Maryland commercial rate averages (DC adjoins MD). DC retail choice market — actual commercial rates depend on chosen supplier.

The primary commercial electric utility in Washington is Pepco (Potomac Electric Power Company, Exelon). Washington is in a deregulated market — your utility handles wires/delivery while you can choose your own retail electricity supplier for the commodity portion of your bill.

Washington businesses are eligible for federal incentives including the 30% Investment Tax Credit (ITC) for solar and battery storage, the 179D tax deduction (up to $5.36/sqft for energy-efficient commercial buildings), and the 40% bonus depreciation for qualifying equipment in 2026. District of Columbia state incentives through DSIRE apply. Your utility — Pepco — may also offer direct rebates for qualifying commercial efficiency upgrades. Use our Incentive Finder for a personalized list.

Yes. DC Building Energy Performance Standards (BEPS) applies to Buildings ≥50,000 sqft in Washington. DC's BEPS (enacted 2018, compliance Cycle 1 beginning 2026) applies to commercial and multifamily buildings ≥50,000 sqft. Buildings must meet energy performance benchmarks tied to ENERGY STAR scores or equivalent EUI targets. Non-compliant buildings face compliance options including efficiency improvements, RECs, or fines. Non-compliance can result in financial penalties. Work with a qualified energy auditor or consultant to assess your building's current performance and compliance pathway.

Yes. C-PACE (Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy) financing is available in District of Columbia. C-PACE allows Washington commercial property owners to finance energy efficiency, solar, storage, and resiliency improvements with repayment attached to the property via a special assessment — enabling 100% upfront financing with repayment spread over 10–30 years.