Lighting the Way Forward: How the Catholic Community of South Baltimore Achieved Major Energy Savings

Faith-based institutions play a vital role in strengthening communities — and like many organizations, they must carefully balance operational needs with responsible financial stewardship. For the Catholic Community of South Baltimore (CCSB), comprised of three parishes and five buildings in Baltimore, MD, lowering energy spend was a key priority.

When Facilities Director, Brian, began exploring lighting and HVAC upgrades, he quickly encountered common barriers: uncertainty around available rebates, complex paperwork, and steep upfront project costs. That’s when he turned to UtilityGenius Commercial Storefront by Encentiv Energy — a platform transforming how customers access and apply utility incentives.

Rebate Equity Through Innovation

Programs like the Storefront are redefining rebate access by directing incentives where they’re needed most. For CCSB, this meant targeting two high-impact upgrades:

• Exterior LED lighting with sensors
• Programmable thermostats throughout their main building

By purchasing directly through Baltimore Gas and Electric’s Instant Rebate Program on the UtilityGenius platform, CCSB received instant rebates applied at checkout — eliminating paperwork and dramatically reducing upfront costs.

The results were immediate and meaningful:

• 50% savings on thermostats
• 89% savings on quality LED lighting
• 12,000 kWh in projected energy savings
• Reduced carbon footprint and long-term operational savings

Overall, the project cost was reduced by more than 70%, making the upgrades financially achievable without delay.

Manufacturer-Direct Fulfillment & Speed

Through the Storefront, CCSB selected products tailored to their facility needs directly from industry-leading manufacturers. From the moment Brian completed the purchase, materials arrived within just 10 days — accelerating project timelines while locking in savings at checkout.

This streamlined approach proves that rebate acquisition doesn’t have to be complicated. UtilityGenius simplifies product selection, ensures rebate eligibility, and removes administrative burdens, allowing organizations to focus on their mission rather than paperwork.

A Growing Impact in Greater Baltimore

CCSB’s project reflects a broader trend. Since launching, the UtilityGenius Commercial Storefront has recorded numerous online sessions from customers and contractors seeking commercial LED and HVAC solutions. Faith-based organizations and other community institutions throughout Greater Baltimore continue to leverage the platform for its user-friendly experience and immediate financial impact.

By strengthening partnerships between BGE, leading manufacturers, and community organizations, UtilityGenius represents the future of rebate acquisition and application — accessible, equitable, and impactful.

For CCSB, the result wasn’t just upgraded lighting and smarter thermostats. It was a clear path forward: lower costs, improved efficiency, and more resources available to serve their community.