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As of January 1, 2026, BGE has officially raised its gas and electric distribution rates again. This rate change increases the "delivery" portion of your bill, the cost BGE charges to bring energy to your home.
Why this matters right now:
- Cold weather: We are currently in the cold months of the year. When temperatures drop, we naturally crank the heat, causing energy consumption to skyrocket.
- Higher costs per unit: Because rates have increased, every therm of gas and kilowatt-hour of electricity you use now costs more than it did last month.
- The result: Between the cold weather and the new rate hike, many Maryland households should prepare for higher bills this month.
Read our press release to learn more about why this is happening and what is being done about it.
How to protect your wallet
- Watch the thermostat: If your health allows, keep it at 68°F during the day and lower it at night.
- Seal the leaks: Use heavy curtains or weatherstripping to keep the heat you’re already paying for from escaping.
- Monitor in real-time: Use the BGE app to track your daily usage so you aren't blindsided when the bill arrives.
Learn about programs that can lower your energy usage.
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Between July and mid-November 2025, at least 140 people contacted the Consumer Affairs Division at the Public Service Commission (PSC) to report serious trouble reaching BGE. Most complaints focused on extremely long hold times and a callback system that didn't work. In response, the PSC held a hearing on December 17, 2025. As a result of that hearing, the PSC issued an order with several directives.
One of those directives focuses on protecting customers while BGE fixes the problems with its call center and callback system. The PSC has ordered a temporary stop on all collection activities.
Effective immediately until February 28, 2026:
- BGE cannot send out new late payment notices.
- BGE cannot try to collect overdue money.
- BGE cannot shut off your power for not paying your bill.
Important: You are still responsible for paying for the energy you use during this time. The Commission might end this pause before February 28, 2026, if BGE fixes the issues, or the PSC may extend the pause if the PSC decides an extension is necessary
Read the order and learn about the other directives.
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For questions or assistance, contact Brandi Nieland, Director of Consumer Assistance at brandi.nieland@maryland.gov. |
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Your People's Counsel is David S. Lapp. Our team is here to help and advocate for you. We represent Maryland residential customers before the Public Service Commission and federal agencies, and we provide you assistance dealing with your utility issues, including affordable and reliable service.
To see what OPC is currently working on, click here for our recent press releases or click here for our media coverage.
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