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.

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