Residents are frustrated by the growing energy bill as Annapolis lawmakers continue to debate energy solutions.
Since the beginning of the year, Baltimore gas and electricity customers in the Baltimore area and its surrounding counties have reported a significant increase in energy bills compared to previous years — some bills, such as Dallas Royer's, have exceeded $1,200.
“It's more stuck than feeling because my stepson comes every other weekend,” said Royer, a Baltimore County resident. So, you know, if the energy is cut off, it's not only me being affected. ”
Royer said she works for food delivery services to earn more money to pay bills.
“I try not to think about it, but it's actually just in my mind, like any time I turn on the lights, I feel introverted. I don't even know how to describe it. It's just everything I do . Like, do I really need to wash these clothes now?” she added.
Other residents, such as Curt Howard of Harford County, doubled their bills.
“I tried to limit my usage as much as possible to keep the price low and then come back twice as much,” Howard said.
Apart from the cold weather, some of the increased costs come from the recent rate hikes in BGE, which will help fund upgraded energy infrastructure needs, especially in aging gas infrastructure.
A BGE spokesperson said in a previous statement: “BGE’s allocation rate has been reviewed and approved by the Maryland Public Services Commission and reflects the major investment in BGE’s energy infrastructure, which is for the continuous safe and reliable supply of energy to our customers. Crucial. This work also lays the foundation for Maryland to be able to achieve its net zero emissions target by 2045. In addition to directly benefiting customers, BGE's investment in electrical and gas systems is an important economic engine in central Maryland Provides power.”
BGE also made it clear that their uncontrollable energy bills reflect some rising allegations, such as Empower MD Charge, a national policy related to funding programs and incentives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. They also cannot control the price of energy.
While residents in other surrounding states such as Pennsylvania and Virginia have largely paid less for energy, some lawmakers noted that state policies have led to higher energy prices in Maryland. Especially as energy demand continues to grow, national energy officials have admitted that renewable energy alone is not enough to meet energy demand. With fossil fuel plants closed and the state does not generate enough energy, state lawmakers are trying to find a solution during this meeting.
But, meanwhile, residents with high bills said they were captured in the middle.
“They are unacceptable to us doing this,” Howard said.
Is there any news tips? Contact reporter Jessica Babb at jessicababb@sbgtv.com.
Originally published:
