Maine PUC issues LNG storage request for proposals
The Maine Public Utilities Commission (PUC) issued a request for proposals on Wednesday, calling for submissions of physical energy storage contracts for liquefied natural gas (LNG) storage from transmission and distribution utilities, gas utilities or natural gas pipeline utilities.
The commission’s request for proposals was issued as a part of L.D. 881, “An Act To Allow the Public Utilities Commission To Contract for Liquefied Natural Gas Storage and Distribution.” The legislation confers authority on the Maine PUC to evaluate proposals for physical energy storage contracts (PESC) submitted by Maine’s utilities, and to order one or more utilities to execute an approved PESC.
“The commission looks forward to receiving proposals and will evaluate them in accordance with statutory directive in a continued effort to seek solutions to Maine and New England’s regional energy challenges,” Maine PUC Chairman Mark Vannoy said.
Conditions for approval include the assurance that the PESC materially enhances LNG storage capacity in Maine, that it provides net benefits to the state’s utility consumers, that it lowers the cost of natural gas at times of peak demand or in the event of a disruption in infrastructure, and that it enhances the reliability of electrical and natural gas service in Maine.
