Sen. Dion re-appointed to Energy, Utilities and Technology Committee

AUGUSTA — Sen. Mark Dion, D-Portland, has been appointed by the Senate President to the Legislature’s Joint Standing Committee on Energy, Utilities and Technology, making him the Senate Democrats’ lead on policy concerning energy production and distribution and public utility companies. Sen. Dion previously served as House Chairman of the committee during the 127th Maine Legislature, from 2015 through 2016.

Sen. Mark Dion, D-Portland.

“I’m excited to return to the Energy, Utilities and Technology Committee. Energy is one of the top policy priorities for both parties, and the committee will have a crucial role in crafting whatever legislation is passed to address sustainability and cost,” said Sen. Dion. “In Maine, we have abundant, untapped solar, tidal and wind resources. Research and development of those technologies can give Maine an edge in this emerging industry, and and building the infrastructure for sustainable energy could create jobs, fight climate change and lower energy costs in the long term. The opportunity is there if we want to seize it.”

The committee has jurisdiction over the Public Utilities Commission, the Office of the Public Advocate, the Governor’s Office of Independence and Security, and Efficiency Maine Trust. It also oversees policy regarding energy, including energy resources, efficiency and conservation; insulation; the electric industry, including supply, transmission and distribution; natural gas industry; telecommunications including mobile, telephone, Internet, broadband and cable television services; E-9-1-1; and water and sewer utilities including district charters.

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