For 120 years, Central Maine Power has partnered with the Maine people in providing reliable and reasonably priced electricity. CMP has always placed their customers first and has continuously invested millions of dollars in Maine’s electrical infrastructure, always working to improve system reliability. In addition, Maine is one of the most heavily wooded states in the country, creating extra challenges, but CMP has always risen to this challenge with an all-hands-on-deck response during storm restoration. Our dedicated electrical workers are the best.

L. D. 1708 threatens our dependable electrical grid by a government takeover of CMP and Versant, with our grid being run by inexperienced and misguided politicians, rather than seasoned experts. Allowing our electrical infrastructure to degrade to the poor condition of our neglected roads and bridges would be a travesty and disservice to Maine residents and businesses.

We can also expect taxes and electrical rates to rise significantly to cover the costs of increased state debt, due to the estimated cost of $13.5 billion.

This bill is extremely risky, with no benefits, and is a lose-lose for the Maine taxpayers and electrical ratepayers. I encourage our Legislature and Gov. Mills to reject L. D. 1708 and to preserve our reliable electrical infrastructure, education funding, and our way of life.

 

Gary Maheux

Waterville