Bill > LD1358

This bill modifies existing Maine law regarding the ownership of electricity generation assets by affiliates of investor-owned transmission and distribution utilities (electric companies). Specifically, the bill removes a previous restriction that prohibited generation assets from being directly interconnected to the utility's facilities. The bill allows an affiliate to own generation or generation-related assets, provided that the Public Utilities Commission establishes and enforces standards of conduct to: prevent the transmission and distribution utility from unfairly favoring its affiliate, ensure the separation and independence of affiliates, and protect ratepayers. The bill also removes a prior limitation that prevented affiliate generation assets from participating in long-term electricity contracts. An "affiliate" is defined as an entity with direct or indirect ownership interest in the transmission and distribution utility, but not including wholly or partially owned subsidiaries of the utility. The standards of conduct will be established through major substantive rules, which require significant regulatory review and approval.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1358&snum=132