Bill > LD1063

This bill requires the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) to direct investor-owned transmission and distribution utilities to competitively procure energy and renewable energy credits from generators that use municipal solid waste (household and commercial trash) as fuel, while also engaging in recycling activities. Specifically, the bill mandates that the PUC initiate a competitive solicitation for up to 35 megawatts of energy from such generators, with the first solicitation to be launched by November 1, 2025. The generators selected must provide the most benefit to ratepayers and offer contract pricing below 7 cents per kilowatt-hour. Contracts would be for a minimum of 5 years and a maximum of 15 years, unless the commission determines a longer term is prudent. The selected generators must also pay various state taxes. The PUC is required to adopt routine technical rules to implement these provisions, which aim to support waste-to-energy facilities that contribute to recycling efforts while providing electricity to the grid.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1063&snum=132