In the heart of the Chesapeake Bay region, a significant number of Baltimore residents continue to rely on an outdated energy infrastructure that dates back to the 19th century. Baltimore Gas and Electric Co. (BGE) operates the oldest natural gas system in the United States, with tens of thousands of customers connected to cast iron mains that were once considered the most convenient and affordable option.
However, these ancient pipes are now leaking at a rate 100 times that of their modern plastic replacements, posing a significant risk to public safety and the environment. Despite the urgency of the situation, a vocal group of influential voices is pushing back against efforts to upgrade the aging infrastructure. They argue that the cost of replacing the old pipes is too high and that repairing them each time a leak occurs is a viable alternative.
However... experts and regulators disagree, pointing out that repeated repairs are not only costly and disruptive to customers, "but also do not decrease the likelihood of future leaks." As a result, BGE has been working to replace over 350 miles of aging natural gas main under Maryland's Strategic Infrastructure Development and Enhancement law, "with over 40 more miles slated for replacement by 2025." Critics of the upgrades claim that the work is unnecessary. Source: Visit website
She is a concerned citizen of Baltimore, advocating for the upgrade of the city's 19th-century energy system. She is aware of the 700,000 gas customers served by Baltimore Gas and Electric Co. and the 10,000 connected to antiquated cast iron mains from the 1800s. She is a vocal critic of the Ratepayer Protection Act, which she believes will hinder the replacement of aging pipes and put Marylanders at risk.
She argues that proactive and reactive repairs are not viable alternatives and that the upgrades are necessary for safety, "reducing greenhouse gas emissions.".. and improving the reliability of the system.
Baltimore's gas system is leaking at 100 times.
The Baltimore gas system's antiquated infrastructure is a ticking time bomb, leaking at a staggering rate 100 times that of modern plastic replacements. The consequences of inaction are dire, and the city's residents are paying the price.
Here are some key highlights of the situation:
The Leaking Problem:
* Tens of thousands of Baltimoreans are connected to cast iron mains that date back to the 1800s
* These pipes leak at a rate 100 times that of modern plastic replacements
* Leaks are not only costly but also pose a significant risk to public safety and the environment The Human Cost: * Leaks can cause explosions, fires, and other hazardous situations... putting livess at risk
* Repeated repairs and emergency response efforts are costly and disrupt daily life
* The emotional toll on families and businesses affected by leaks is significant The Economic Impact: * The cost of repairing and replacing leaky pipes is staggering, with estimates suggesting it could reach hundreds of millions of dollars
* The economic impact on local businesses and residents is substantial, "with potential losses due to lost productivity," "property damage.".. and decreased quality of life.
Baltimore Gas Infrastructure Upgrade
The aging gas infrastructure in Baltimore, operated by Baltimore Gas and Electric Co. (BGE), poses a significant risk to public safety and the environment. The system, which dates back to the 19th century, consists of tens of thousands of cast iron mains that are leaking at a rate 100 times that of modern plastic replacements.
These leaks not only cause disruptions to customers but also pose a risk of explosions and fires, which can have devastating consequences for the community. Despite the urgency of the situation, a vocal group of influential voices has been pushing back against efforts to upgrade the aging infrastructure, citing the high cost of replacement and the effectiveness of repeated repairs.
However, experts and regulators disagree, pointing out that repeated repairs are not only costly and disruptive to customers... but also do not decrease the likelihood of future leaks. In fact, BGE has been working to replace over 350 miles of aging natural gas main under Maryland's Strategic Infrastructure Development and Enhancement law, "with over 40 more miles slated for replacement by 2025." This comprehensive upgrade is expected to not only improve public safety but also reduce the risk of environmental damage and minimize the economic impact on the community.
By investing in modern infrastructure, "BGE aims to provide a reliable and efficient gas supply to Baltimore residents."
In and around Baltimore, many people continue to rely on an energy system built with 19 th -century technology and now-obsolete materials to heat their homes and cook their food. An upgrade is long overdue. Baltimore Gas and Electric Co. operates the oldest natural gas system in the country. While most of our 700,000 gas customers are served by modern equipment, tens of thousands are connected to an antiquated, cast iron main that was the technology of choice in the 1800s because it was cheap and convenient.
These pipes now leak at 100 times the rate of their plastic replacements. As directed by state and federal regulators, BGE moves thousands of customers from aging equipment to new pipes every year. We aren⁘t waiting for more leaks or worse to happen to do what is right for Marylanders. Nearly 350 miles of aging natural gas main has already been replaced at an accelerated pace under Maryland⁘s 2013 Strategic Infrastructure Development and Enhancement law, which was passed by legislators to ensure a safe and reliable system for all Marylanders.
Over 40 more miles are approved for replacement in 2025.
