Bill > LD186

This bill clarifies and expands the Public Utilities Commission's (PUC) authority to establish time-of-use (TOU) pricing for standard-offer electricity service, which allows electricity rates to vary based on the time of day electricity is used. The bill amends existing law to explicitly include time-of-use pricing as a method of incorporating demand response and energy efficiency into standard-offer service for residential and small commercial customers. The legislation requires the PUC to submit a report detailing the process for participation in any TOU rate proceedings and to consider potential impacts on specific vulnerable customer groups, including those on life support systems, medical assistance programs, senior citizens, and economically disadvantaged residents. When establishing TOU rates, the PUC must actively seek to minimize negative consequences for these identified vulnerable populations. By providing this explicit authorization and establishing protective considerations, the bill aims to promote more flexible and potentially cost-effective electricity pricing while ensuring that the most vulnerable customers are not disproportionately harmed by the new pricing structure.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=186&snum=132