Maine PUC examining the impacts of COVID-19 on customers, utilities

The Maine Public Utilities Commission is examining how the COVID-19 pandemic is affecting utilities, customers’ ability to pay their utility bills, and federal resources available to help both customers and utilities.

“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,” Maine PUC Chairman Philip Bartlett II said.

It will also look at the effect of closed businesses and other economic challenges on utilities’ accounts receivable, and the potential for significant future rate adjustments from these circumstances. Analyzing these issues now will help the commission better understand the scope of the problem and identify ways to address the challenges, Bartlett said.

The commission is seeking input from utility customers, businesses, utilities, and other interested stakeholders on these topics.

The PUC will also look at federal legislation and changes in regulations or policies that are designed to help utility customers manage their utility bills and assist utilities with their operations.

On March 16, the commission declared a moratorium on utility disconnections in response to the economic and social disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The moratorium is in effect until further notice.

The Maine Public Utilities Commission regulates electric, telephone, water, and gas utilities in the state. Bartlett is the chairman, while Bruce Williamson and Randall Davis serve as commissioners.