Baltimore leaders oppose proposed $156 million BGE rate hike

Baltimore city leaders are urging Maryland regulators to reject BGE’s proposed $156 million rate increase, which they say would raise typical customer costs by about $8 a month, or roughly $100 a year. City Council President Zeke Cohen has called for lowering the utility’s allowed return on equity, arguing customers should not bear excessive costs amid rising household bills. The proposal has also drawn concern from local businesses: the co-owner of Silver Queen Cafe said a sharp increase in her monthly BGE bill contributed to the decision to close the 11-year-old business. BGE says the increase would pay for infrastructure inspections and repairs, tree trimming, storm response and other work needed to maintain reliable service.