Baltimore officials challenge proposed Bge utility surcharge

Baltimore city officials have formally filed an opposition with the Maryland Public Service Commission to challenge a proposed Baltimore Gas and Electric (BGE) surcharge. The surcharge, which follows Baltimore’s decision to increase fees for companies using the city’s underground conduit system, could increase monthly utility bills for residents by approximately $9.

BGE estimates these higher fees will cost the utility an additional $50 million annually. The company argues that customers located outside of Baltimore should not be responsible for costs tied specifically to the city’s infrastructure. Conversely, city officials maintain that the increased conduit fees are essential for maintaining and modernizing aging underground infrastructure.

Mayor Brandon Scott expressed concern that the surcharge would place an unfair burden on families already facing rising household expenses. This proposal coincides with a separate request from BGE for a $156.1 million increase in electric base rates, which could add another $8 per month to average residential bills. Baltimore City Council President Zeke Cohen warned that the combined impact of these proposals could increase annual utility costs for the average customer by roughly $200.