Maine Public | By Peter McGuire
Published April 14, 2026 at 3:52 PM EDT

A new state law will encourage Maine electric customers to shift their heavy power use to times of the day when there is lower overall demand.

The law directs Efficiency Maine to develop a pilot program offering education and outreach to customers who could benefit from switching to cheaper "time of use" rates offered by Maine's electric utilities.

Under those rates, customers can lower their monthly bill if they avoid using lots of electricity between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m., when demand is highest.

That could mean putting off running a dishwasher, clothes drier, air conditioner or charging large batteries during other times of the day.

Officials across New England are implementing similar programs to reduce wholesale electric prices and the need to build out expensive infrastructure.

In a press release, law sponsor Sen. Denise Tepler, D-Topsham, said the program could help Mainers burdened by high energy costs.

"“This bill will establish a program that will help Mainers save money on their utility bills when electricity demand and rates are at some of their highest points throughout the year," Tepler said.

Continue reading at https://www.mainepublic.org/climate/2026-04-14/new-law-aims-to-get-mainers-to-use-off-peak-electricity

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