Maine Public Utilities Commission

The Maine Public Utilities Commission (Maine PUC) is a government agency that regulates water, electric, natural gas, and telecommunications in the state of Maine.[1] Maine PUC hosts public hearings on utility rate increases and other issues.[2] The commission also oversees ferries and water taxis in Casco Bay.

The three full-time commissioners are nominated by the governor, reviewed by the legislature's Joint Standing Committee on Utilities and Energy and confirmed by the full senate, for staggered terms of six years. The governor designates one commissioner as chairman. The commissioners make all final commission decisions by public vote or action of the majority. As of 2026, Maine PUC's chairman is Phil Bartlett.[3][4][5]

In November 2025, Maine PUC rejected a rate hike request from Central Maine Power (CMP) that was part of a proposed five-year workforce and grid investment plan, citing affordability and other concerns.[6]

As of 2026, Maine PUC has installed more than 30 free public pay phones across the state to help people make free local and emergency calls, in addition to placing long distance calls.[7]

References

  1. ↑ "MPUC: How does the Commission work?". www.maine.gov. Retrieved April 14, 2021.
  2. ↑ Mills, Keenan (May 6, 2026). "Maine Public Utilities Commission host public hearing on Maine Water Company proposed increases". WABI. Retrieved May 28, 2026.
  3. ↑ Maine, Susan Cover. "Tired of high electric bills? Regulators say there are things you can do". spectrumlocalnews.com. Retrieved May 28, 2026.
  4. ↑ Riley, Kim (July 29, 2024). "Maine regulators issue order on 10-year integrated grid plans for investor-owned utilities". Daily Energy Insider. Retrieved May 28, 2026.
  5. ↑ "Maine leaders pitch solutions to enhance grid as temperatures drop and electricity prices soar". kvue.com. February 23, 2026. Retrieved May 28, 2026.
  6. ↑ McCusker, Cate (November 18, 2025). "Public Utilities Commission rejects Central Maine Power's rate hike request". WMTW. Retrieved May 28, 2026.
  7. ↑ "Free phones aim to keep Mainers connected". spectrumlocalnews.com. Retrieved May 28, 2026.
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