Sen. Vitelli bill to help Mainers afford energy bills receives bipartisan support in committee

AUGUSTA — On Friday, the Legislature’s Energy, Utilities and Technology Committee voted strongly in favor of a bill from Sen. Eloise Vitelli, D-Arrowsic, that would help more Mainers afford their energy bills. An amended version of LD 1913, “An Act to Create the Electric Ratepayer Advisory Council,” received a bipartisan vote of 9-1 with 3 members absent.

“The problem of energy affordability is complex, but my drive to fix it is straight-forward. I believe no Mainer should struggle to heat their home, that no one should have to choose between putting food on the table or keeping the lights on,” said Sen. Vitelli. “There is no silver bullet solution for the problem we’re facing. This bill is part of a larger effort, and will give us the tools to plan for energy affordability. I’m thankful to my fellow committee members for their support of this bill.”

As amended, LD 1913 would direct the Public Advocate to create the Electric Ratepayer Advisory Council to review utility rates and come up with a plan to ensure that Maine people will be able to afford their energy bills as the state modernizes its electric grid and moves toward energy independence. The bill directs the council to review relief programs that help seniors and other struggling Mainers pay for their energy bills and improve other strategies that make electricity more affordable. The amended version of the bill also contains an emergency clause, meaning it will take effect immediately upon becoming law.

Melissa Winne, with the Governor’s Energy Office, offered testimony in support of LD 1913: “This bill is of particular interest to the GEO and of importance to Maine people and businesses as global fossil fuel markets, particularly for natural gas, are driving up electricity prices.”

The bill is also supported by the Office of the Public Advocate, AARP and the Maine Chamber of Commerce.

LD 1913 now faces votes in the Senate and House.