BGE Proposes Microgrids In Baltimore, Howard County

BALTIMORE (AP) -- Baltimore Gas and Electric Company is proposing to develop two electric microgrids in Baltimore City and Howard County as part of a pilot project.

Microgrids are self-contained, small-scale electric grids with their own power generation source. BGE says a microgrid can power a commercial center independently of the regional grid when needed, such as after a severe storm causes power outages.

BGE's application to the Public Service Commission proposes developing pilot microgrids at Edmondson Village in Baltimore and at the Kings Contrivance Village Center in Howard County.

BGE's proposal includes a plan to recover the costs of developing and operating the microgrids through a monthly charge for electric customers. The charge is estimated to be about four cents per month for the average residential electric customer in the first year.