BGE Reports 300,000 Baltimore Customers Behind on Payments Amid Rising Utility Bills
Baltimore Gas and Electric (BGE) has informed the Maryland Public Service Commission that approximately 300,000 of its electric customers in Baltimore are currently behind on their utility payments. This disclosure, made in June, comes as many residents report significant increases in their monthly bills. For instance, one customer, Renee Nuckles, stated her bill surged from $300 to $1,800 in a single month. Another customer, Matt Gola, expressed demoralization over his rising bill and questioned BGE's profits while customers struggle. The utility company's spokesperson, Nick Alexopulos, emphasized that disconnection is a last resort and highlighted BGE's efforts to assist customers, including offering extended payment arrangements of up to 18-24 months and waiving deposit requirements for those seeking to maintain or restore service. This situation follows the end of a moratorium on service disconnections in July, intensifying concerns among customers and city leaders regarding the affordability of electr...