Maine utilities told to stick with ISO

MAINE - Central Maine Power and Bangor Hydro-Electric are being told to continue their arrangement with the operator of the regional power grid for two more years.

But the Public Utilities Commission also ordered the companies to aggressively pursue reforms of their relationship with ISO-New England.

The panel has expressed dissatisfaction with the present system, citing inequitable cost allocations and poor representation of consumer interests in the power grid's decision-making processes. It also found that components of the ISO structure benefit Maine's energy markets and consumers.

Earlier this year, the PUC conducted proceedings to assess the progress of negotiations and to consider whether to direct the utilities not to renew the existing agreements.