Bill > LD585

This bill modifies Maine's existing energy trust law to change how certain regional transmission organization (RTO) payments can be used. Specifically, the bill allows the energy trust board to receive and deposit payments from RTOs (which are organizations that coordinate electricity transmission across multiple states) into program funds that support beneficial electrification measures. These measures are defined as cost-effective initiatives that reliably reduce electricity rates over time, with specific examples including high-performance air source heat pump technology and electric vehicles. Previously, these RTO payments were designated for a specific heating fuels efficiency and weatherization fund from fiscal year 2019-20 to 2024-25. The change gives the energy trust board more flexibility in using these funds to support electrification technologies that can help reduce overall electricity costs for consumers. The bill aims to promote energy efficiency and potentially lower electricity rates by enabling broader use of RTO payment revenues for emerging green energy technologies.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=585&snum=132