Baltimore Gas & Electric (BGE) resumed power shut-offs for delinquent accounts on July 15. The utility had been under a six-month collections moratorium mandated by state regulators due to severe customer service call center issues, which was officially lifted after the Maryland Public Service Commission cited demonstrated operational improvements.
Critical Details & Protections
- Turn-Off Notices: Affected customers began receiving delinquency turn-off notices in the mail.
- Extreme Weather Protections: Under Maryland state policy, utilities cannot cut off power to a household if the 6 a.m. forecast predicts temperatures of 95°F or higher, or a sustained heat index of 95°F is expected within the next 72 hours.
- Expanded Support Options: BGE is offering extended payment arrangements ranging from 18 to 24 months, waiving deposit requirements, and offering budget billing for customers in arrears.
- Apply for Grants: Visit the Maryland Office of Home Energy Programs to see if you qualify for state energy assistance grants. Only about 30% of eligible households applied for these grants in the past, making it a critical first step.C
- Contact BGE Directly: Call BGE to set up an Extended Payment Arrangement to avoid a mid-summer service termination.
- Seek Local Aid: Low-income residents can also explore grants from the Fuel Fund of Maryland.
- Energy Audits: Schedule no-cost Quick Home Energy Checkups to identify efficiency options that can lower long-term bills.
