News

Maine Regulators Open Inquiry Into Utilities’ Storm Response

Photo: 560 WGAN Newsradio


HALLOWELL, Maine (AP) The Maine Public Utilities Commission is opening an inquiry into the preparedness and response of Maine’s electric companies following a powerful windstorm the day before Halloween.

The storm left more than half the state’s population in the dark, and it took Central Maine Power up to 10 days to restore power to all customers.

All told, about 400,000 CMP customers and 90,000 Emera Maine customers lost service, making it the largest power outage in Maine history.

The Portland Press Herald reports that the PUC on Tuesday asked Central Maine Power and Emera Maine to file a report detailing their responses and lessons learned in 30 days.

The PUC isn’t the only entity looking into the storm response. The public advocate’s office and state lawmakers also are planning their own inquiries.

Latest Headlines

3 hours ago in Local

Coast to Coast Charity Bike Ride to End in Portland

The bike ride crosses 15 states.

14 hours ago in Local

73-Year-Old Inmate at Mountain View Correctional Facility Dies

The Department of Corrections says his death was attended by medical personnel.

15 hours ago in Local

Suspicious Device Located During Traffic Stop in Newcastle

The device was secured and removed for further evaluation, including a laboratory analysis.

17 hours ago in Local

Man sues Maine State Police for violent treatment during arrest

A Limerick man is suing Maine State Police over accusations that troopers punched him while he was handcuffed after his arrest in March of 2024.

17 hours ago in Local

Fire officials identify 2 killed in Portland apartment fire

The Maine State Fire Marshal's Office has tentatively identified the two people who died in a fire at a Portland apartment complex over the weekend.