BGE customers at risk of service disconnection due to past-due balances face a July 15 deadline, but help is available. The moratorium on bill collection is lifting, but BGE will not shut off power during extreme heat conditions (95°F heat index or heat emergency).
Key Assistance Options
- Maryland Office of Home Energy Programs (OHEP): Provides grants for income-eligible households. Apply quickly—only 30% of eligible households applied in 2025.
- Energy efficiency programs: Free HVAC tune-ups and Quick Home Energy Checkups can reduce costs.
- Community Solar: Save on energy without installing panels.
BGE's Customer Support Enhancements
- Extended payment arrangements (18-24 months)
- No deposit requirements for customers in arrears
- Promotion of assistance programs like the Fuel Fund of Maryland
Background on the Moratorium
In December 2025, the PSC ordered a six-month moratorium due to BGE's call center issues (average wait time of 546 minutes). By February 2026, wait times dropped to 7.1 minutes after staffing increases and operational reforms. The PSC lifted the moratorium on May 15, effective July 15, but BGE must report call center stats monthly for three years.
Act now to keep your power on: visit BGE's "Here to Help" page or call to set up payment arrangements.
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