Can Maryland officials unplug power deregulation?

As Gov. Robert L. Ehrlich Jr. unveiled a plan last week to help ratepayers with dramatic BGE rate increases, his opponents were increasing calls to turn back time and re-establish state controls on electricity prices and the power industry.

The idea is tempting to anyone considering the prospect of a 72 percent jump in electric bills this summer.

But while support for such an effort can be heard from Democrats and Republicans alike, there is an equally diverse chorus of resignation. Not only would a return to a regulated market be expensive, but it wouldn't necessarily mean lower rates for consumers.

"You can do anything...