I work from home and use electricity daily, all day. My efficient heat pumps provide cool and warm air depending on the season.

Since November 2021, I have been traveling. No one was in my home during that time, except to check on it briefly. My heat pumps were set at 50 degrees.

My new Central Maine Power bill arrived recently. I expected an increase, as I work with the energy sector, often with CMP officials, and understand that electricity supply and delivery charges were expected to increase significantly. I have a working understanding of the system. Pandemic supply chains and fuel demands are contributing to price volatility. Brutally cold Maine winter nights can wreak havoc on fuel bills in any year.

My CMP bill, for a 30-day period in an empty, efficient, unplugged, small home, is nearly five times last year’s average bill when I was home all day, every day.

It’s painful for my wallet, but I am lucky I can cover the financial spread. But many Mainers cannot afford their next oil delivery or electric bill, and in some cases, try to heat their homes by leaving their oven doors open, placing electric heaters around their beds or sitting in idling cars with heat blasting. The burden is particularly high among our low-income neighbors, who may spend up to 20 percent of their total household income on energy purchases.

CMP must do better to relieve energy burdens for everyone. The state must do better in holding utilities accountable for their performance.

Jeff Marks
Portland

Copy the Story Link

« Previous

Letter to the editor: When getting dental care, ensure anesthesia is safe

Next »

Letter to the editor: Wintertime liquor litter probably not from Maine visitors