In response to the op-ed (“PSC must monitor the impact of Maryland’s rising energy costs,” March 26, 2024), the Maryland Public Service Commission is keenly aware that many Marylanders struggle to afford their energy bills, that its decisions have direct impact upon these Marylanders, as well as implications for our state’s climate change goals. As I stated when assuming my chairmanship, I firmly support no Marylander left behind and made a commitment to help address climate change. I would like to highlight several steps being taken by the Commission to address these issues and seek relief for customers.
A centerpiece to assisting customers is a recently opened proceeding in response to a law that authorized utilities to propose mechanisms that benefit limited-income customers. The Commission’s proceeding seeks ideas, suggestions and proposals from a broad spectrum of interests including customers, consumer advocates, elected officials, utilities and social justice organizations. Comments have been received from several stakeholders and the Commission will hold a hearing in the very near future to start to work through these important issues.
Concerns were also raised regarding predatory supplier pricing practices. The Commission shares similar concerns and has taken legal action against several bad actors within the market since 2019, culminating in our maximum enforcement actions last year. Additionally, the Commission has implemented legislation passed in 2021 which prohibits suppliers from charging low-income customers on energy assistance from paying more than the current utility rate. No supplier has elected to make such an offering since. The Commission does not regulate supplier prices, but does have an active proceeding to address reforms in the retail energy market to strengthen consumer protections, with a hearing scheduled for this summer. Finally, the Commission has also supported legislation which is moving towards passage and which will help safeguard consumers from predatory and deceptive marketing practices by some retail energy suppliers.
Recognizing the impacts of climate change, the Commission’s ‘future of gas’ proceeding will explore near-term priority actions and comprehensive long-term planning for Maryland’s gas companies. The Commission has been charged by the General Assembly to consider the impact of our decisions on Maryland’s environment.
Energy affordability and the clean energy transition are of paramount importance to the Commission and we are actively working to seek solutions for the benefit of Maryland citizens.
—Frederick H. Hoover
The writer is chair of the Maryland Public Service Commission.
