February 25, 2020

Hallowell, Maine - February 25, 2020 - Today, Commissioners of the Maine Public Utilities Commission ("Commission") voted unanimously to approve four initiatives from the solicitation conducted by the Commission to Support Beneficial Electrification of the Transportation Sector (Public Law 2019, ch. 365, 5).

"The Commission is pleased to make these awards today to support electrification of the transportation sector. All four initiatives will benefit and support electric vehicles (EV) in Maine consistent with the statute, said Chairman Philip L. Bartlett, II. As pilots, each program will provide valuable information to inform future policies to support EV deployment in Maine. The four initiatives are described below. A rebate program run by Efficiency Maine Trust (EMT) for L2 electric vehicle charging stations. Sixty rebates will be provided for $4,000 each, for a total of $240,000. A series of communications developed by EMT including the creation of two how-to manuals for prospective and recent EV owners, a series of instructional videos to show the crucial elements of EV ownership to prospective purchasers, and 20 show and tell events throughout the state, which would include opportunities for attendees to drive or ride in an EV. These efforts total $55,050. A program run by CMP to provide $4,000 in make ready work for the electrical infrastructure required to provide for 60 L2 electric vehicle charging stations, for a total of $240,000. This program will be offered as an alternative to the EMT rebate program as a means of learning which approach the host site customers prefer. A rate design program in CMP's service territory providing for reduced demand charges to encourage the installation of L3 electric vehicle charging stations.

An L2 charger takes about eight hours to charge an EV and is usually located at workplaces, retail or residential locations. An L3 charger can charge an EV at a much faster rate, generally around 20 minutes, and is generally placed at a public location such as a highway rest-stop.

Background: During its First Regular Session, the 129th Maine Legislature enacted an Act to Support Electrification of Certain Technologies for the Benefit of Maine Consumers and Utility Systems and the Environment, Public Law 2019, ch. 365 5. The Act directed the Commission to solicit proposals for pilot programs to support the beneficial electrification of Maines transportation sector.

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

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