Resolve, To Require The Public Utilities Commission To Initiate A Feasibility Study To Evaluate Transmission Technologies And Siting Locations For Any Future Electric Transmission Line Proposed Pursuant To The Northern Maine Renewable Energy Development Program

This bill directs the Governor's Energy Office to conduct an emergency study on the future of electric transmission infrastructure in Maine. The study must examine current permitting processes, best practices from other states, future energy needs, available land rights, and various transmission technologies including underground lines. To gather input, the office is required to coordinate with multiple state agencies and hold a meeting with a diverse stakeholder group representing utilities, environmental departments, private landowners, and engineers. The legislation is designated as an emergency measure, meaning it takes effect immediately rather than waiting the standard 90-day period after the legislative session ends.