Governor Baldacci on ISO-NE Report: ‘Status Quo is Unacceptable'

Press Release

Governor Baldacci on ISO-NE Report: ‘Status Quo is Unacceptable'

Governor John E. Baldacci issued the following statement concerning a draft report released Wednesday by the Maine Public Utilities Commission.

The report examines the costs and benefits of withdrawing from ISO-New England, a regional transmission organization that includes Maine.

According to the report, Maine's participation in ISO-NE exposes consumers to high, volatile, and in some cases, inequitable costs and limits the State's ability to meet environmental policy objectives, including the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. ISO-NE's regional cost allocation policies exacerbate issues of Maine's reliance on natural gas, and limit the region's ability to fight climate change.

"The PUC report confirms that the status quo is unacceptable," Governor Baldacci said. "Maine has not been treated fairly and our people pay the price with higher electricity rates. We must develop energy policies that protect Maine ratepayers and stabilize the electricity market."

"Our electricity prices are too high, and they're hurting Maine families and Maine businesses," Governor Baldacci said.

"As one possible avenue to improving our current situation, I will also continue to engage the Canadian Maritimes. A partnership with our neighbors to the north offers numerous opportunities. We are both rich in natural resources that could provide clean, non-greenhouse gas emitting electricity and help lower prices and improve reliability."

"Maine must take control of its energy future, and I will work with the PUC and the Legislature to protect our decision-making authority," Governor Baldacci continued.

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