MAINE PUBLIC • October 13, 2022
The Maine Public Utilities Commission recently announced plans for a series of new electric rates for those who use electric vehicles, heat pumps or battery storage. The plan for these new alternative rates drew some criticism from Maine Republican lawmakers earlier this week. But state officials say these new rates will not result in any additional costs for other ratepayers. Tne new rate option would encourage businesses and residential customers to charge an electric vehicle overnight, when the demand for electricity is usually less. Another is designed to appeal to households that use more electricity than the average residential customer. The new rate schemes are optional. Maine households and businesses can opt in if they want to participate.