MAINE PUBLIC • July 5, 2022
Maine electricity regulators have approved a new way to ensure Central Maine Power's transmission and distribution system can meet future demand in the Topsham and Brunswick areas. Instead of a buildout that's completely dependent on more robust and expensive new lines, it will also use lower-cost, grid-scale battery storage and energy efficiency measures to reduce "peak loads" on the system. Andrew Landry of the state public advocate's office helped negotiate the first-time effort under a 2019 state law that requires consideration of what are called "non-wire alternatives" when big transmission upgrades are proposed. Landry said the project will save consumers $8.5 million over 40 years. And it's an indicator of how the electricity grid could meet the challenges posed by an onslaught of new renewable power sources and government goals for "beneficial electrification" of the economy.