An Act To Align Long-Range Grid Strategy With The State Energy Plan And Strengthen Integrated Grid Planning

This bill requires Maine's Department of Energy Resources to create a 10-year long-range grid plan that aligns with the state's energy plan and is updated every five years. The plan must include strategies for integrating renewable energy, improving grid resilience against climate change, and using cost-effective technologies before approving new infrastructure investments. It mandates public input and expert consultation during development, and requires the Public Utilities Commission to adopt the plan and use it as a benchmark for evaluating future utility rate cases and capital projects. The legislation also establishes performance-based incentives for utilities that meet specific goals related to grid efficiency, renewable energy hosting capacity, and reliability improvements.