NRCM news release
Augusta, ME – Governor Janet Mills today signed into law the repeal (LD 91) of an anti-solar gross metering policy enacted by her predecessor to stifle the development of solar energy in Maine. The change was heralded by the Natural Resources Council of Maine (NRCM) as an important first step in moving forward with bipartisan solutions that will boost the development of clean energy that will benefit all Maine people.
In response to the governor’s action today, NRCM issued the following statement from Clean Energy & Climate Director Dylan Voorhees:
“The speedy repeal of gross metering is a clear sign that Maine now stands ready to accelerate the transition to a clean energy future. By taking this important first step, Governor Mills and a bipartisan majority of legislators have shown they are prepared to lead Maine and its people toward energy independence by accelerating our investment in clean, affordable renewable energy.
“The first step in moving toward a clean energy future is not unfairly penalizing those who choose to invest in solar power for their homes or businesses. The repeal of gross metering will remove the harmful fees utilities are now charging solar customers for using their own solar power.
“Across Maine, people are finding that solar energy is an affordable option for powering their businesses, municipal buildings, or homes. Unfortunately, the delay tactics and obstruction by the former governor stifled progress and cost Maine good-paying jobs in an industry that’s been growing elsewhere in New England. As a result of the years lost in distraction by this ill-conceived policy, Maine continues to rank last in the region for solar jobs for the fifth year in a row.
“We have a lot of catching up to do, but the stage is now set to accomplish that. By enacting policies that will expand clean energy innovation in Maine, we’ll be making the smart choice to expand new economic opportunities for electricians, technicians, and other trades.”
