CMP’s proposed rate hike is facing a setback.
Staff at the Maine Public Utilities Commission is recommending that regulators reject Central Maine Power’s request for a temporary rate increase, says a story at WGME.com.
CMP is seeking a total $189 million increase in distribution rates, saying the money is needed for grid upgrades, additional line workers and more aggressive tree trimming aimed at reducing outages.
The company’s proposal includes a $69.3 million temporary increase, which would add about $7 a month for the typical customer while the larger rate case moves forward.
A longer-term increase beginning in May 2027 could add up to an average of $18 more per month, according to the PUC.
The PUC’s presiding officers say the request raises concerns about affordability, customer confusion and the complexity of the case.
But this isn’t the final word. The recommendation now goes to the commission, and interested parties have until October 5 to respond.
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