When I first ran for office six years ago, I promised to focus on the issues affecting people’s daily lives: affordability, accountability and building a future where Maine families can thrive.
Over the past six years serving my hometown of Scarborough in the Maine House of Representatives, I’ve delivered on lowering energy costs, supporting workers, improving transparency in government and providing practical results for Maine people.
Lowering Energy Costs for Maine Families
One of my biggest priorities has been addressing rising electricity costs.
I sponsored LD 1777, landmark legislation to reform Maine’s Net Energy Billing program and reduce unnecessary costs being passed on to ratepayers. The law preserves successful rooftop solar programs while slowing the escalating costs associated with large community solar projects.
The reforms are expected to save Maine ratepayers roughly $1.2 billion over the next 16 years while continuing Maine’s transition toward clean energy. The legislation received unanimous, bipartisan support because lawmakers recognized we needed to protect Maine consumers while continuing to move toward energy independence and climate progress.
I also authored LD 1966, which creates a renewable energy program for low- and moderate-income Mainers to build in renewable energy projects through cooperative ownership. Additionally, it unlocks $5 million dollars from our federal government to build these projects, which saves all Mainers money on their electric bills while investing in environmental justice.
The bill also addresses implementation concerns and protects consumers during the transition to a more sustainable and affordable energy system.
My focus throughout this process has been making sure Maine people are not left paying higher bills because of loopholes or unintended consequences in state policy.
In addition, I sponsored LD 946 to expand access to energy efficiency programs for low-income and moderate-income Mainers. Energy efficiency is one of the most effective ways to lower monthly utility bills, improve housing quality and reduce long-term energy costs for families.
Supporting Good Jobs and Fair Labor Standards
I believe Maine’s clean energy transition should create good-paying jobs with strong labor protections.
That’s why I’ve supported efforts to strengthen labor standards in industries connected to Efficiency Maine programs and clean energy investments. Public dollars should support safe working conditions, fair wages and pathways into the skilled trades for Maine workers.
We can tackle climate change and lower costs while also supporting workers and local economies. Those goals are not in conflict.
Increasing Transparency and Public Accountability
I’ve also worked to strengthen transparency and accountability in government.
I supported legislation requiring police departments to publicly publish their policies and procedures so community members can better understand standards around policing, accountability and use of force.
Public trust depends on transparency. Maine people deserve access to the rules and policies that govern public institutions in their communities.
Focused on Practical Results
Throughout my time in the Legislature, I’ve tried to stay focused on practical solutions to the challenges Maine people are facing every day and I have passed over 20 bills doing just that.
Whether it’s lowering utility bills, improving transparency, supporting workers or protecting consumers, my goal has always been to make government work better for ordinary people and help build a more affordable future for Maine families.
As your representative, I hope you will continue to be in touch with me about the issues important to you. My phone number is (207) 450-0765 and my email address is sophie.warren@legislature.maine.gov.
Sophie Warren is serving her third term in the Maine House of Representatives and has served four years on the Joint Standing Committee on energy policy.
Contact:
Brian Lee, 207-287-1430