To the Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC), BGE Executives, and Elected Officials:

We, the undersigned residents and consumers of Baltimore and surrounding areas, are writing to express our deep concern and frustration regarding recent and proposed BGE gas rate increases. Although we support critical infrastructure upgrades for safety and reliability, we believe the primary responsibility for covering these costs lies with BGE’s own profits, not the hard-earned money of everyday customers.

Background & Concerns  

1. Rising Utility Bills: Over the past several years, BGE gas rates have risen substantially, placing a heavy financial burden on households and small businesses. Many face tough choices, such as cutting back on essentials or falling behind on other bills.  

2. High Corporate Profits: BGE’s parent company reports substantial annual profits. With these resources, the company can and should fund infrastructure improvements without shifting such a large share of costs onto ratepayers.  

3. Infrastructure Responsibility: Maintaining and upgrading the gas delivery system is a core part of doing business. Just as companies in other sectors invest in their own systems, BGE should treat infrastructure costs as a business expense rather than an excuse to impose perpetual rate hikes on customers.

Our Demands  

1. Use Profits for Infrastructure: BGE must allocate a significant portion of its revenue and profits toward necessary infrastructure and system updates, rather than raising customers’ bills.  

2. Immediate Review of Rate Hikes: We call on the Maryland Public Service Commission to thoroughly review and, where appropriate, roll back any rate increases that disproportionately shift infrastructure costs to consumers.  

3. Greater Transparency: BGE should publicly disclose how much of its annual profits are reinvested in infrastructure, detailing every major project and its funding sources.  

4. Consumer Relief Programs:If additional funds are genuinely needed beyond company profits, BGE should expand and improve financial assistance programs to protect low- and moderate-income customers from undue hardship.

Why This Matters 

Fairness: Consumers should not bear the brunt of costs that rightfully belong on the company’s balance sheet.  

Accountability: BGE’s significant profits indicate it is fully capable of taking on more responsibility for infrastructure spending.  

Community Well-Being: Stable and affordable utility rates are crucial for families’ financial health, local business success, and overall community resilience.

Conclusion

By signing this petition, we urge the Maryland PSC, BGE executives, and our local and state representatives to ensure that BGE covers infrastructure upgrades through its corporate profits first, before passing any costs to customers. Our families and neighborhoods deserve fair treatment and transparent utility practices that prioritize the welfare of the community.

We demand a fair resolution now and stand united in protecting our right to affordable, reliable utility service.