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Excerpts from the ME PUC’s press release:

“The Maine Public Utilities Commission (MPUC) has initiated an inquiry to explore the implications of the state’s decarbonization goals for natural gas utilities and their customers, and to solicit information from interested stakeholders. The proceeding seeks to develop a consistent framework for incorporating greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions impacts into the Commissions decision-making around gas infrastructure investments and contractual commitments, evaluate the consistency of these investments with state climate goals, and assess the broader future of natural gas in Maine.

The Commission has issued an initial set of questions and invites interested parties to submit comments by June 10, 2025. Topics include:

-What new information or analyses are needed to inform the Commissions ongoing decisions with respect to natural gas in Maine?

-What frameworks exist in other states?

-How should the Commission approach gas utility expansion given the States GHG reduction and climate goals and the Commissions statutory authority with respect to gas utilities?

-How are or how should Maines gas utilities consider and prepare for potential reductions in the number of gas utility customers and declines in overall usage attributable to factors related to the States climate policies?

-What potential changes are or should gas utilities consider to their business models?

Participant funding may be available to qualifying individuals or organizations in accordance with MPUC Rules, Chapter 840. More information on intervener funding is available at: www.maine.gov/mpuc/about/intervener-funding. 

The Commission encourages robust stakeholder participation in this proceeding, which will help shape how Maine balances energy affordability, safety, and system reliability while meeting its climate obligations.” 

2025-00145

(Maine Public Utilities Commission Inquiry Regarding Future Of Natural Gas).