Baltimore Residents Grapple with Spike in Utility Bills After Winter Storm

Baltimore Residents Grapple with Spike in Utility Bills After Winter StormBaltimore Residents Grapple with Spike in Utility Bills After Winter Storm Baltimore residents are facing a financial burden after utility bills skyrocketed following a severe winter storm that hit the city in February. The storm brought heavy snow and frigid temperatures, forcing residents to crank up their thermostats to stay warm. According to the Baltimore Gas and Electric Company (BGE), utility bills for gas and electricity combined increased by an average of 25% for residential customers in January and February compared to the same period last year. Some residents are reporting bills that are double or even triple what they were accustomed to. One resident, Elizabeth Jones, said her utility bill spiked by nearly $300, leaving her struggling to make ends meet. “I had to skip on groceries to pay the bill,” she said. “This is a huge financial hardship for me.” The spike in utility bills has sparked anger and frustration among residents. Many are calling on BGE to provide relief or implement payment plans to help those who are struggling to pay. BGE has acknowledged the financial strain that the storm has placed on customers. The company has launched a payment assistance program that offers a one-time credit of $250 for eligible customers. However, critics say that the program is not enough to offset the massive spike in bills. In addition to the financial burden, the high utility bills have also raised concerns about the health and safety of residents. Some have reported that they are struggling to keep their homes warm due to the high cost of gas and electricity. Community organizations and social service agencies are stepping up to provide assistance to those who are most vulnerable. The Salvation Army and the United Way of Central Maryland are offering financial assistance and heating assistance to low-income residents. The Baltimore City Council has also passed a resolution calling on BGE to provide more assistance to customers who are experiencing hardship. The council is also considering imposing a moratorium on utility shut-offs during the winter months. As residents continue to grapple with the financial fallout from the winter storm, the city and utility companies are trying to find ways to provide relief and prevent future spikes in utility bills.