Amid residents' outcry over soaring energy costs, the Baltimore City Council has taken a unanimous stance, urging the state's Public Service Commission (PSC) to halt Baltimore Gas and Electric (BGE) 's planned rate increases. As reported by FOX Baltimore, City Council President Zeke Cohen underscored the toll these rising bills are exacting on the community, recounting a resident who was faced with choosing between oxygen and electricity.
The contentious multi-year rate plan sanctioned by PSC was approved in 2023. It enables BGE to ramp up its distribution fees to modernize outdated infrastructure. According to Cohen, who spoke to CBS News Baltimore, this upgrade isn't translating into enhanced gas services but higher delivery charges. BGE executive Mark Case linked the surging costs to Maryland's dependence on importing approximately 40% of its energy from other states, further emphasizing infrastructure undertakings that align with state electrification policies.
The council's move, however, doesn't immediately translate into lower rates, given their lack of direct regulatory power over BGE. Nonetheless, this resolution serves as a political signal as the council presses state officials for reform. While BGE responded that eliminating Multi-Year Plans (MYP) won't offer immediate rate relief, the governmental body is seeking immediate and long-term measures.
Highlighting a staggering 30% surge in natural gas prices this January compared to the previous year, BGE spokesman Nick Alexopulos explained to CBS News Baltimore that distribution costs, energy supply rates, and the state-mandated "Empower Maryland" fees jointly contribute to the bill intensifications. To ease customer strain, BGE has opted to waive late payment fees and suspend disconnections for the winter months, according to statements detailed by the outlets above.
