Molly Ayala
Baltimore Gas & Electric (BGE) is the largest utility company in Maryland, delivering energy to over 2 million customers across the state. BGE customers can choose from a variety of electricity suppliers and plans, including small local companies and big national ones like Constellation and Direct Energy. Some factors that impact electricity rates include fuel costs, infrastructure investments, and usage habits. Customers can compare rates and plans by visiting websites such as Choose Energy and ElectricityRates.com, which offer tools to estimate monthly bills and compare green energy options. BGE also provides an Electric Choice Program to support qualified electricity suppliers conducting business in its service territory.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Customer base | Over 2 million customers across Maryland |
| Service area | Baltimore City and all or part of 10 counties in Central Maryland |
| Types of charges | Delivery charges and supply charges |
| Default service | Customers receive electricity delivery and supply through BGE |
| Choice of supplier | Customers can choose their electricity supplier |
| Suppliers | Constellation Energy, Direct Energy, Spark Energy, Tomorrow Energy |
| Types of plans | Variable plans and term plans (3 to 36 months) |
| Price-to-compare | 11.11¢ (valid until September 30, 2024) |
| SOS rate | Changes seasonally |
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What You'll Learn
BGE's Electric Choice Program
Baltimore Gas & Electric (BGE) is the largest utility company in Maryland, delivering energy to over 2 million customers across the state. BGE offers electricity transmission services to 1.3 million residential and business customers in Maryland.
When choosing an electricity supplier through BGE's Electric Choice Program, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, compare electricity providers and plans by paying attention to each plan's electricity supply rate and plan length. BGE's current price-to-compare is a benchmark rate that customers can use to compare different electricity plans. This rate is valid until a specified date, after which electricity rates may change daily.
Additionally, it is important to understand the different types of rates offered by BGE, such as Standard Offer Service, Market-Based Rates, and Time-of-Use Pricing. Standard Offer Service is a regulated rate that applies to residential and small commercial customers who have not chosen an alternate supplier. Market-Based Rates allow large commercial and industrial customers to shop for competitive electricity rates from licensed suppliers. Time-of-Use Pricing encourages shifting usage to off-peak times by varying the price per kWh depending on the time of use.
Finally, it is worth noting that different retail suppliers offer term plans ranging from 3 to 36 months, providing stability and predictable monthly bills. However, early cancellation fees may apply for breaking a contract. Alternatively, customers can choose a variable plan with rates that change monthly based on the price of electricity, offering flexibility without termination fees.
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Comparing electricity rates and plans
Understanding the Market:
Before diving into specific plans, it's important to understand the electricity market in your area. BGE, or Baltimore Gas & Electric, is the default electricity provider for many residents in Maryland. However, energy deregulation in Maryland allows customers to choose their electricity supplier, creating a competitive market with various suppliers offering different rates and plans.
BGE's Electric Choice Program:
BGE recognizes the importance of customer choice and has implemented the Electric Choice Program. This program enables BGE customers to select their electricity supplier while continuing to receive electricity delivery and billing services from BGE. By participating in this program, customers can explore potential savings by comparing rates from different suppliers.
Comparing Rates and Plans:
When comparing electricity rates and plans, it's essential to consider several factors:
- Supplier Reputation and Reliability: Ensure that you choose a reputable and reliable electricity supplier. Research their track record, customer reviews, and any specialized offerings, such as renewable energy plans.
- Rates and Pricing: Examine the electricity supply rate, which reflects the cost of electricity per kilowatt-hour (kWh). Compare this rate across different suppliers and plans. Pay attention to any introductory rates or promotional discounts that may expire after a certain period.
- Plan Length and Flexibility: Understand the length of the plan you're considering. Some plans may offer short-term or long-term options, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Additionally, inquire about early termination fees if you need to end the plan earlier than expected.
- Incentives and Additional Benefits: Suppliers may offer various incentives to attract customers. These could include discounts on energy-efficient appliances, lighting, or other energy-saving programs. Consider these incentives as they can provide additional value to your plan.
- Customer Service: Evaluate the level of customer service provided by each supplier. Inquire about response times, support channels (such as phone, email, or online chat), and the overall ease of communication.
Utilizing Comparison Tools:
Facilitate your comparison process by utilizing online tools specifically designed for this purpose. Websites like ElectricityRates.com and ElectricRate.com offer rate comparison tools that allow you to input your ZIP code and compare rates, term lengths, early termination fees, potential savings, and other incentives side by side. These tools simplify the process of gathering and comparing critical information.
In conclusion, comparing electricity rates and plans at BGE involves researching suppliers, understanding your own needs, and leveraging available tools to make an informed decision. By following this guide, you can navigate the competitive market and select a plan that aligns with your financial and energy usage goals.
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Energy Choice Plan
BGE's Electric Choice Program provides information to electricity suppliers to help them conduct business in BGE's service territory. Registered electricity suppliers must adhere to the terms outlined in BGE's Electricity Supplier Coordination Tariff, which is governed by the MD Public Service Commission (PSC) through the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) Title 20.
The Electric Choice Program uses Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) Transaction Guidelines approved by the PSC. BGE also provides a list of EDI Rejection and Reason Codes, an EDI Transaction Reference Document, and answers to frequently asked questions for additional context. Electricity suppliers can create sub-accounts to separate blocks of accounts within their existing customer base for PJM Load, and BGE's system can accommodate multiple sub-accounts for each supplier.
BGE's Electric Tariff documents are also available to view or download, and BGE is a member of the PJM Interconnection. Each Load-Serving Entity serving retail loads within PJM is responsible for its portion of the supply and transmission. The CD Web tool allows licensed electricity and gas suppliers to access 12 months of historical customer data and interval data for electric accounts with interval metering. It also includes account-specific information such as names, bill groups, and PLC values. To use the CD Web tool, suppliers must obtain a Letter of Authorization (LOA) from the customer.
Customers can also take advantage of BGE Smart Energy, which allows them to view reports on their energy use and sign up for alerts to make more informed choices about their energy consumption. The EmPOWER Maryland programs, funded by a charge on energy bills, offer ways to reduce energy consumption and save money. Since 2008, these programs have saved $14.5 billion on installed measures, reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
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Variable plan rates
Variable-rate plans are electricity plans where the rate you pay fluctuates based on market conditions. These plans offer more flexibility than fixed-rate plans, as you're not locked into a contract with a set rate for a specified period. However, the variable nature of these plans means your rates can increase or decrease at any time, depending on market factors and the supplier's discretion.
When considering variable plan rates in the BGE (Baltimore Gas and Electric) service area, it's important to be aware of the upcoming rate increase scheduled for October 1. BGE's residential SOS rate will rise from 5.505 cents per kWh to 6.234 cents per kWh, resulting in a 13% change. This increased rate will be in effect from October 1 to May 31, 2021. As a result, customers with an average electricity usage of 1,005 kWh can expect their generation supply charges to increase from $60.37 to approximately $72.27.
To avoid the impact of this rate hike, customers might consider exploring alternative suppliers and plans. For instance, Energy Harbor's Safe Harbor 12 plan offers a rate of 6.89 cents per kWh. While this rate is higher than BGE's current rate, it may become more competitive after BGE's rate increase. Additionally, customers should be mindful of the $25 early termination fee associated with the Safe Harbor 12 plan.
When evaluating variable plan rates, it's essential to understand the potential risks and benefits. Variable rates can provide opportunities for savings when market prices drop, but they also carry the risk of unexpected price surges. Customers opting for variable plans should carefully review the terms and conditions, be aware of any termination fees, and stay informed about market trends to make informed decisions.
Ultimately, the choice between a variable or fixed-rate plan depends on your preferences for flexibility versus price stability. Variable plans offer the advantage of potential savings and the freedom to switch suppliers without contractual obligations. On the other hand, fixed-rate plans provide the security of locking in a consistent rate, protecting you from sudden increases but potentially limiting your ability to take advantage of future market downturns.
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Energy Choice for Baltimore Gas & Electric
BGE has some of the best electric supplier rates in Maryland, and its current price-to-compare is 11.11 cents, which is valid until September 30, 2024. This benchmark rate allows customers to compare different electricity plans. BGE offers Standard Offer Service, which is a regulated rate for residential and small commercial customers who have not chosen an alternate supplier. Market-Based Rates are available for large commercial and industrial customers, who can shop for competitive electricity rates from licensed suppliers. Time-of-Use Pricing is another option, where the price per kWh depends on when you use electricity, encouraging off-peak usage.
Customers can compare BGE electric rates and plans with other providers in their area, including Constellation Energy, Direct Energy, and Spark Energy. Retail suppliers offer term plans from 3 to 36 months, providing stability and predictable bills, but with potential early cancellation fees. Variable plans are also available, with rates that change monthly, offering flexibility without termination fees.
When shopping for an Energy Choice Plan, customers should consider their current bill, past usage, the current BGE SOS rate, and their BGE account number. By participating in Energy Choice, BGE customers can choose their electricity supplier and potentially save money compared to the default electricity rate.
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Frequently asked questions
Baltimore Gas & Electric (BGE) is an energy supplier that delivers energy to over 2 million customers across Maryland.
By default, BGE customers receive electricity directly from BGE. However, by participating in Energy Choice, BGE customers can choose from a range of different electricity suppliers, including small local companies and big national ones like Constellation and Direct Energy.
BGE provides a benchmark rate or price-to-compare that customers can use to compare different electricity plans. Customers can also compare BGE electric rates and plans with other providers in their service area.
After finding the right plan, fill out the necessary information and switch. The new provider will take over within one to two billing cycles, and there is no need to contact BGE.
