CURRAN PROVIDES MARYLANDERS WITH ANSWERS TO LOOMING ELECTRIC RATE INCREASES

In response to the dramatic increases in Maryland electricity rates which are scheduled to begin in June and July of this year, Maryland Attorney General J. Joseph Curran Jr. is providing answers to Maryland consumers’ questions. Consumers may find information about the rate increases and the optional Rate Plans for BGE, PEPCO and Delmarva Power on Curran’ s website.

Consumers in most of Maryland are facing tough choices regarding their electric bills. They must choose between paying the full rate increases immediately or paying them later through an optional Rate Plan offered by their electric companies. The information provided on Attorney General Curran’s website explains the Rate Plans, offers examples of how each of the Plans work, and addresses some of the more confusing elements of these rate plans.

Although by law the Attorney General’s Office does not represent Maryland consumers in matters regarding public utilities (the Office of People’s Counsel does that), Curran believes his office must help consumers understand their choices. "These plans are confusing, and anything we can do to explain the options available to consumers, we must do," said Curran. "This is big money we are talking about, and people must be aware of what they’ll be paying in June and July of 2006, AND what they’ll be paying in June of 2007."

Consumers who do not have access to the Internet can call 410-576-6550 and leave their name, address, and the name of their electric company. The Attorney General’s Office will mail the appropriate information to them.