"Baltimore City Council Takes Stand Against BGE Rate Hikes"
The Baltimore City Council has passed a resolution opposing rate hikes proposed by Baltimore Gas and Electric (BGE). Councilman Zeke Cohen introduced the resolution, urging the Maryland Public Service Commission to reject BGE's multiyear rate plan, which would increase gas distribution rates by 61% and electric distribution rates by 31% over three years. Cohen argues that the plan is unnecessary, costly to ratepayers, and harmful to the environment. BGE disputes Cohen's claims, stating that the plan would result in a 5% average annual increase in residential bills. The utility argues that the rate increases are necessary to fund gas infrastructure upgrades and meet Maryland's decarbonization goals. The PSC has scheduled a hearing on the matter.