April 28, 2020

Hallowell, Maine - April 28, 2020 The Maine Public Utilities Commission (Commission) announced today that it will seek input on and begin to analyze in detail how the pandemic will impact utilities, customers' ability to pay their utility bills, and any federal resources available to help both customers and utilities with their ongoing obligations.

"Rapidly rising levels of unemployment in Maine and other adverse effects of the pandemic raise serious questions about customers ability to pay their utility bills," said Chairman Philip L. Bartlett II. In addition, the effect of closed businesses and other economic challenges will impact utilities accounts receivable, and the potential for significant future rate adjustments from these circumstances is of great concern to the Commission. Proactively examining these issues now will better enable us to understand the scope of the problem and to identify options to address the challenges posed by this pandemic and the economic disruption it has caused.

The Commission is seeking input from utility customers, businesses, utilities and other interested stakeholders on these topics. The Commission will also look at new federal legislation or changes in federal regulations or policies that are intended to 1) assist utility customers in managing their utility bills under these circumstances, and 2) assist utilities with their ongoing operations and obligations under these circumstances. The inquiry can be found on the Commissions website under Docket Number 2020-00136. https://www.maine.gov/mpuc/online/index.shtml Finally, in response to the economic and social disruption accompanying the spread of COVID-19, on March 16, 2020, the Commission declared a moratorium on utility disconnections until further notice.

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About the Commission The Maine Public Utilities Commission regulates electric, telephone, water and gas utilities to ensure that Maine citizens have access to safe and reliable utility service at rates that are just and reasonable for all ratepayers. Commission programs include Maine Enhanced 911 Service and Dig Safe. Philip L. Bartlett, II serves as Chairman, Bruce Williamson and Randall Davis serve as Commissioners.

Learn more about the Commission at www.maine.gov/mpuc

Contact: Harry Lanphear, Administrative Director Phone: (207) 287-3831 Email: Harry.Lanphear@Maine.gov