[Due 3/2/2025] Maine - Lower Energy Costs

I support LD 444 “An Act to Lower Energy Costs by Repealing the Law Setting Out the State's Goals for Consumption of Electricity from Renewable Resources.”

As I understand it, this bill repeals the law establishing the State's renewable energy goals and amends other provisions of law to remove cross-references to the renewable energy goals.

As energy consumers, we know the burden the high cost of my energy needs places on our budgets.  Our electricity delivery and supply charges are high, and increasing constantly.  With net energy billing fees plugged into our CMP and Versant bills, we’re subsidizing Chinese solar panel manufacturers and out-of-state solar field installers, for very little return.  Much anxiety when ordering a tank of fuel oil.  So expensive!  When do we get a break?

Again, I support LD 444 “An Act to Lower Energy Costs by Repealing the Law Setting Out the State's Goals for Consumption of Electricity from Renewable Resources”, and it “ought to pass.”

Thank you for the opportunity to provide testimony related to LD 444. My name is [Your Name], and I am here to support the proposed changes to LD 444, more specifically, the removal of the reference to Maine’s renewable energy goals in section 3210, subsection 1‑A. This change is a necessary step toward a more balanced, cost-effective, and flexible approach to energy policy that serves all Mainers.

1. Prioritizing Affordability and Energy Reliability
Maine’s energy policies should focus first and foremost on ensuring affordable and reliable power for residents and businesses. While renewable energy plays an important role in our energy future, rigid mandates can limit our ability to adapt to changing economic and technological conditions. Removing the renewable energy goals reference allows for a more cost-conscious approach, ensuring that ratepayers are not burdened with unnecessary expenses tied to mandates rather than market-based energy solutions.

2. Encouraging a Technology-Neutral Energy Strategy
By eliminating the statutory preference for renewable energy targets, Maine can diversify its energy portfolio and support an all-of-the-above approach, including renewables, natural gas, hydropower, and emerging technologies. This shift allows for greater flexibility in selecting energy projects that best serve Maine’s needs rather than being constrained by pre-set targets.

3. Supporting Economic Growth and Grid Stability
Over-prioritizing renewables without considering infrastructure limitations can lead to grid instability and higher transmission costs. Removing section 3210, subsection 1‑A gives policymakers the ability to assess energy projects on their overall economic and technical viability, ensuring that Maine’s energy grid remains stable, resilient, and capable of meeting demand—especially during peak usage and extreme weather conditions.

4. Maintaining Environmental Responsibility Without Mandates
Maine can still pursue responsible energy policies without rigid mandates. The state’s existing environmental commitments under Title 38, sections 576-A and 577 ensure that greenhouse gas reduction remains a priority. However, these goals should be met through practical, cost-effective measures rather than inflexible renewable energy quotas that may not always align with economic realities.

Conclusion
In summary, removing the reference to renewable energy goals does not mean abandoning clean energy—it means allowing for a smarter, more adaptable energy policy that prioritizes affordability, reliability, and economic growth while still keeping environmental considerations in mind. Again, I support LD 444 “An Act to Lower Energy Costs by Repealing the Law Setting Out the State's Goals for Consumption of Electricity from Renewable Resources”, and it “ought to pass” to give Maine the flexibility it needs to make responsible energy decisions moving forward.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

[Your Name]