Baltimore residents challenge BG and E's $1M daily investment in gas infrastructure

The City Council Hearing on February 20, 2025, focused on significant concerns regarding Baltimore Gas and Electric (BG&E) and its ongoing investments in gas infrastructure. A key point raised during the meeting was the company's commitment to spending approximately one million dollars daily on new gas systems, despite the state's push towards renewable energy and electrification.

Critics questioned the necessity of this investment, arguing that BG&E has not provided sufficient evidence to justify the need for a new high-pressure gas system. They pointed out that the current low-pressure system has not been shown to be unsafe or unreliable, with only one isolated incident reported in 2022. The lack of customer complaints further fueled skepticism about the need for costly infrastructure changes.

Concerns were also raised about the impact of these projects on Baltimore's roads and sidewalks, with residents questioning who truly benefits from the new infrastructure—citizens or BG&E's profits. Some speakers suggested that BG&E should focus on repairing existing systems rather than pursuing new installations that may become obsolete as fossil fuels are phased out.

The meeting highlighted frustrations with BG&E's communication and project management, with residents describing experiences of vague information and disruptive construction practices. Many expressed a desire for greater accountability from both BG&E and the Public Service Commission (PSC), which oversees utility rates and practices.

As BG&E reported a substantial net income of $170 million in the fourth quarter of 2024, community members urged city and state officials to intervene, reconsidering permits for new projects until BG&E can provide clear justification for its actions. The discussions underscored a growing demand for transparency and a shift towards sustainable energy solutions in Baltimore.