What are the rights of public utility customers in regards to rate structure?

In Maryland, public utility customers have the right to know the rate structure for the utility services they receive. The rates that the utility company charges for services must be filed with the Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC). The PSC is responsible for reviewing and approving the rates to ensure that the public utility company is not using those rates to unfairly benefit themselves. The PSC also must ensure that the rates charged are reasonable and that customers are not being overcharged for services. To make sure that the rates remain fair, the PSC has the authority to conduct hearings and investigations as necessary and to determine whether the rates charged are fair and just. Customers also have the right to protest any rate structure they believe is unreasonable. Customers may file a complaint with the PSC and if they provide sufficient evidence and arguments, the PSC may reduce, modify, or even eliminate the rate. In addition to these rights, customers also have the right to take legal action against the public utility company if their rates are excessively high or they believe that they are being unfairly charged. Customers can bring their concerns to court, where a judge will decide whether or not the rates are fair and just. Overall, public utility customers in Maryland have the right to know the rate structure for their services and to make sure that utility companies are not using rates to unfairly benefit themselves. Customers can also protest any unfair rates and take legal action.

Related FAQs

What is the role of the Air Traffic Control System Standards Board (ATCSB) in utilities law?
What is the purpose of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA)?
What rights do public utility customers have in regards to service reliability?
What is the scope of utilities law?
What is the purpose of the Telecommunications Act of 1996?
What are the legal requirements for utility companies in regards to infrastructure?
What are the legal obligations of public utility employees?
What is the role of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) in utilities law?
What is the difference between a regulated and an unregulated utility?
What is the role of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) in utilities law?

Related Blog Posts

Understanding What Utilities Law Is and How It Affects You - July 31, 2023
A Guide to Navigating Utilities Law Regulations - August 7, 2023
How to Make a Complaint about Utilities Law - August 14, 2023
Utilities Law: What You Need to Know to Protect Your Rights - August 21, 2023
Common Utilities Law Mistakes to Avoid - August 28, 2023