Sen. Tepler bill establishing a program for utility demand management signed into law by Governor

AUGUSTA —Today, April 13, the Governor signed into law LD 2140, “Resolve, to Establish a Demand Response Program to Lower Electric Bills and Improve Grid Reliability.” Sponsored by Sen. Denise Tepler, D-Topsham, the bill would establish a demand response program designed to help low-income Mainers reduce their utility bills.

“Too many Mainers are burdened with high energy costs right now,” said Sen. Tepler. “This bill will establish a program that will help Mainers save money on their utility bills when electricity demand and rates are at some of their highest points throughout the year. I am grateful to my colleagues in the Senate for supporting this bill and to the Governor for signing it into law so we can assist Mainers who are struggling to afford everyday costs.”

LD 2140 outlines a plan for Efficiency Maine to establish a program for utility customers that would assist them in reducing certain energy usage during peak demand hours. This in turn would reduce monthly utility bill costs. This is anticipated to be particularly effective during summer days when there is high strain on the grid. The program would be opt-in only.

The bill requires Efficiency Maine to prioritize outreach and education for low-income electricity customers. Additionally, the trust must assess the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of the program and submit a report with their findings to the Energy, Utilities and Technology Committee by February 28, 2028.

LD 2140 will go into effect 90 days after the Legislature adjourns.

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