ME LD2038

Transmission and distribution utilities in Maine must participate in a regional transmission organization (RTO) authorized by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to own or control transmission infrastructure in the state

Consumer-owned utilities and utilities in northern Maine served by the independent system administrator are exempt from the requirement

Designated as emergency legislation to take effect immediately upon approval, rather than after the standard 90-day waiting period

Intended to prevent Maine utilities from collecting a "bonus return on equity" on transmission assets that federal courts have ruled is only available to utilities that voluntarily join RTOs

Annual electricity rate updates by New England utilities begin June 15th, creating urgency to implement before the next rate cycle