Baltimore, Maryland, December 4, 2025
Baltimore Gas and Electric (BGE) is under fire for allegedly prioritizing profits over customer safety. State officials and consumer advocates are criticizing the company’s multi-billion-dollar gas pipeline modernization project for potentially delaying the replacement of hazardous pipes. Critics argue this shift may prioritize financial incentives rather than public safety, raising concerns about foreseeable increases in utility costs for customers, projected to escalate by $19 billion over 20 years. BGE has defended its practices, asserting a commitment to replacing risky infrastructure, while calls for greater regulatory oversight persist.
Baltimore, Maryland – BGE Accused of Prioritizing Profits Over Customer Safety
Baltimore Gas and Electric (BGE) is facing criticism from Maryland officials and consumer advocates who allege the company is prioritizing profits over customer safety and infrastructure reliability.
Allegations of Mismanagement in Gas Pipeline Modernization
State leaders and consumer advocates have raised concerns about BGE’s multi-billion-dollar natural gas pipeline modernization project, known as Operation Pipeline. They argue that BGE is not adequately prioritizing safety in its project selection, potentially delaying the replacement of hazardous cast iron pipes. Critics suggest that the company’s focus on converting gas systems from low to medium pressure may be driven more by financial incentives than by public safety considerations.
Financial Implications for Customers
The Maryland Office of People’s Counsel estimates that BGE’s spending on gas line extensions and related projects could lead to an additional $19 billion in costs over the next 20 years, significantly increasing utility rates for customers. This projection has raised alarms about the affordability of gas services for Maryland residents.
BGE’s Response to Criticisms
BGE spokesperson Nick Alexopulos has refuted these claims, stating that the company has been focusing on replacing the riskiest infrastructure for decades. He emphasized that 85% of the planned Operation Pipeline work in 2025 involves abandoning cast iron mains, a detail he believes was omitted from the critics’ report.
Calls for Regulatory Oversight
In response to these concerns, Maryland officials and consumer advocates are urging the Public Service Commission (PSC) to require greater transparency from BGE. They seek detailed documentation of the company’s project selection methodology and risk evaluation processes to ensure that safety and customer interests are adequately prioritized over financial considerations.
Background on BGE’s Operations
BGE, a subsidiary of Exelon Corporation, serves electricity and natural gas customers in Maryland. The company has been involved in various infrastructure projects aimed at modernizing the state’s energy systems. However, recent analyses have questioned the company’s approach to these projects, particularly regarding the balance between financial objectives and customer safety.
Conclusion
The ongoing debate highlights the tension between utility companies’ profit motives and their obligations to ensure safe, reliable, and affordable services for consumers. As discussions continue, stakeholders are calling for increased oversight and transparency to protect the interests of Maryland residents.
FAQ
What is Operation Pipeline?
Operation Pipeline is BGE’s multi-billion-dollar project aimed at modernizing Maryland’s natural gas infrastructure by replacing aging pipelines, including hazardous cast iron pipes, to enhance safety and reliability.
What are the main criticisms of BGE’s pipeline modernization efforts?
Critics allege that BGE is prioritizing financial incentives over safety by focusing on converting gas systems from low to medium pressure, potentially delaying the replacement of hazardous cast iron pipes.
How might BGE’s spending impact customers financially?
The Maryland Office of People’s Counsel estimates that BGE’s spending on gas line extensions and related projects could lead to an additional $19 billion in costs over the next 20 years, significantly increasing utility rates for customers.
What is BGE’s response to these allegations?
BGE spokesperson Nick Alexopulos has refuted the claims, stating that the company has been focusing on replacing the riskiest infrastructure for decades and that 85% of the planned Operation Pipeline work in 2025 involves abandoning cast iron mains.
What actions are being taken to address these concerns?
Maryland officials and consumer advocates are urging the Public Service Commission to require greater transparency from BGE, seeking detailed documentation of the company’s project selection methodology and risk evaluation processes to ensure safety and customer interests are prioritized.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Operation Pipeline | BGE’s multi-billion-dollar project aimed at modernizing Maryland’s natural gas infrastructure by replacing aging pipelines, including hazardous cast iron pipes, to enhance safety and reliability. |
| Criticisms | Allegations that BGE is prioritizing financial incentives over safety by focusing on converting gas systems from low to medium pressure, potentially delaying the replacement of hazardous cast iron pipes. |
| Financial Impact | Estimated additional $19 billion in costs over the next 20 years due to BGE’s spending on gas line extensions and related projects, leading to significantly increased utility rates for customers. |
| BGE’s Response | Refutation of claims, emphasizing focus on replacing the riskiest infrastructure for decades, with 85% of the planned Operation Pipeline work in 2025 involving abandoning cast iron mains. |
| Regulatory Actions | Maryland officials and consumer advocates urging the Public Service Commission to require greater transparency from BGE, seeking detailed documentation of the company’s project selection methodology and risk evaluation processes to ensure safety and customer interests are prioritized. |
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