# Baltimore utility rate dispute

> Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/baltimore-utility-rate-dispute
> Updated: 2026-11-05T14:46:06.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2.

Baltimore Gas and Electric (BGE) proposed a monthly surcharge of approximately $9 for Baltimore City customers to recover costs from a city decision to increase underground conduit franchise fees. BGE President and CEO Tamla Olivier described the 84 percent fee increase as a “money grab” that would cost the company roughly $50 million annually, noting a lack of transparency regarding how the city would use the revenue.

Baltimore city officials responded by formally opposing the surcharge through the Maryland Public Service Commission. Mayor Brandon Scott argued the surcharge would place an unfair burden on families, while city officials maintained the increased fees are necessary to modernize aging infrastructure. The dispute is compounded by a separate BGE request for a $156.1 million increase in electric base rates, which could add an additional $8 per month to 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.

## Timeline

### 2026-11-05: Baltimore officials challenge proposed Bge utility surcharge

Baltimore officials are opposing a proposed BGE surcharge that could raise monthly utility bills by $9, citing concerns over the financial burden on city residents.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/baltimore-officials-challenge-proposed-bge-utility-surcharge

### 2026-10-22: BGE proposes $9 monthly surcharge for Baltimore customers

BGE has proposed a $9 monthly surcharge for Baltimore City customers to offset an 84% increase in city conduit franchise fees.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bge-proposes-9-monthly-surcharge-for-baltimore-customers

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Cite as: Baltimore utility rate dispute. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/baltimore-utility-rate-dispute