NRCM statement
The Maine Public Utilities Commission (PUC) today completely rejected a proposal that would have benefited Central Maine Power (CMP) by doubling the fixed monthly charges for residential and small business customers over the next four years.
The Natural Resources Council of Maine (NRCM) has been a party to this lengthy case because increased fixed rates hurt the ability of consumers to use energy efficiency or clean energy solutions to reduce their energy bills, as argued by NRCM and the Office for the Public Advocate. The PUC chair referenced a brief by NRCM in discussing their decision.
Below is a statement from NRCM Clean Energy Attorney Sue Ely on the decision:
“Today’s decision by the PUC is a victory for Maine’s electricity consumers and is entirely consistent with the state’s goal to transition away from expensive, polluting fossil fuels to cost-effective clean energy solutions.
The proposed fixed charge increase, which was championed by CMP, would have discouraged the more efficient use of electricity and discouraged deployment of solar and storage technology.
The PUC should be applauded for its decision to empower customers to make strategic and informed decisions about how and when to consume energy. Consumers win when they have the ability to control and reduce their electricity bills by investing in clean energy and energy efficiency.”
