Maine’s Public Utilities Commission is recommending the denial of a rate hike request by Central Maine Power.

CMP is pursuing a rate hike that would amount to a roughly $18 a month increase for the average customer beginning in May of 2027.

A short-term increase of about $7 a month for the average customer would take effect prior to the larger proposed increase.

It’s part of a requested $189 million increase in distribution rates, which CMP says would fund upgrades aimed at reducing outages.

The recommendation by the PUC cites affordability, customer confusion and complexity of the plan, but a final decision is expected at a later date.

Involved parties can respond to the recommendation through October 5.