Baltimore Gas and Electric Sought $156 Million Hike

The utility company requested a revenue increase that could raise annual costs for the average customer by $100.

Updated on Oct. 3, 2026 in Utilities

Isometric editorial illustration showing a brick electrical substation wall with cabling and insulators, reflecting urban utility infrastructure. — Baltimore Gas and Electric has asked the Maryland Public Service Commission to approve a $156 million revenue increase, potentially raising annual costs for customers. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Should your utility provider be permitted to increase electricity rates by $156 million?

Baltimore Gas and Electric has formally requested a $156 million revenue increase from the Public Service Commission. If the proposal is approved, the average customer faces an estimated $100 increase in annual costs.

Why it matters

The utility seeks the additional revenue through adjusted electric distribution rates. This proposed hike has drawn significant pushback from local officials concerned about the financial burden on residents.

If approved, BGE electric distribution rates would be 58% higher than 2020 levels and 129% higher than those recorded in 2012. The proposal carries a potential $100 annual cost increase for the average customer.

The players

Baltimore Gas and Electric

This major utility provider is the primary electricity and natural gas supplier for the Baltimore metropolitan area.

Public Service Commission

This state regulatory agency holds the authority to approve or deny proposed rate adjustments for utility companies.

Zeke Cohen

He serves as the City Council President of Baltimore and has been an active opponent of the proposed utility rate increase.

The details

City Council President Zeke Cohen recently led a canvassing event in the Allendale neighborhood of West Baltimore to collect signatures and distribute information opposing the rate increase. The Public Service Commission is now managing the case, which includes a series of evidentiary and public comment hearings.

2012: Exelon acquired BGE.
2020: Baseline year for electric distribution rate comparisons.
October 3, 2026: Official notice of the pending rate request.
November 6, 2026: Evidentiary hearings begin for the proposed revenue increase.

Market Landscape

The proposed rate hike continues a long-term trend of rising utility distribution costs that has significantly outpaced inflation since the 2012 acquisition of BGE by Exelon. This move highlights the ongoing tension between utility capital investment goals and the rising cost of essential services for the Baltimore public.

The average Baltimore resident could see their annual utility bill climb by $100 if the Public Service Commission grants the full request. Households should prepare for potential budget adjustments to account for these significantly higher distribution charges.

The takeaway

Rising utility distribution rates continue to place sustained pressure on household budgets across the city. Residents are encouraged to monitor the upcoming Public Service Commission hearings to stay informed on the potential impact of these adjusted charges.