Pine Tree Power supporters sell hope while detractors lean on uncertainty at industry forum

MAINE MORNING STAR • September 19, 2023

Dozens of Mainers rose early Tuesday morning to attend a debate over the merits of Question 3, a measure that — if approved by voters this fall– would create the nonprofit Pine Tree Power to provide service to most of the state and push two for-profit utilities, Central Maine Power and Versant, out of business. Supporters of Pine Tree Power doubled down on now familiar messaging that the current investor-owned utility structure does not work for consumers– pointing to poor customer service, reliability issues, the urgent need for a transition to renewable energy, and CMP and Versant’s corporate, for-profit structure. Meanwhile, opponents invoked the many unknowns, arguing that Maine residents are better off using the legislature and utility commission to hold CMP and Versant accountable to consumers.