MEDIA CONTACT: Heather Sanborn, 207-624-3687, Heather.Sanborn@maine.gov
September 16, 2025 | HALLOWELL, ME – Central Maine Power (CMP) has filed a five-year, more than $1.4 billion spending plan, with the Maine Public Utilities Commission (PUC). CMP seeks to increase its revenue over this period by more than $438 million. If approved, the plan would lead to substantial increases in electric rates for customers beginning in October 2026.
Responding to the filing on Tuesday, Maine Public Advocate Heather Sanborn expressed concern about the scale of CMP’s proposal and urged Mainers to participate in the review process.
“This is an enormous increase. At a time when many families are already struggling to afford their bills, CMP’s proposal asks Mainers to pay even more,” Sanborn said. “We need to ensure electricity distribution costs don’t spiral out of control, especially as our state encourages people to electrify their homes and vehicles to meet climate goals. Affordability must remain front and center.”
The Office of the Public Advocate will represent ratepayers throughout the case before the PUC. Sanborn stressed that direct public input can also play a critical role in the PUC’s decision.
The PUC is scheduled hold two public witness hearings where Mainers can share their experiences and concerns directly:
- Tuesday, October 14, 6:00PM: Hilton Garden Inn, 5 Park Street, Freeport
- Wednesday, October 15, 6:00PM: Maine Public Utilities Commission, 26 Katherine Drive, Hallowell
The Office of the Public Advocate provides guidance on how to make your voice heard at www.maine.gov/meopa/puc-information. The office can also be reached at 207-624-3687.
“We strongly encourage Mainers to speak up,” Sanborn said. “The voices of everyday ratepayers are essential to making sure decisions about our power system put people first.”
The PUC will review CMP’s proposal over the coming months before issuing a final decision.