Report: Boosting natural gas would lower power bills
A state-commissioned study concluded that Maine customers could save more than $120 million per year on their electric bills if natural gas prices in the region are brought in line with prices in other Northeast states.
The Portland Press Herald reported the study released by the Governor’s Energy Office, the Maine Public Utilities Commission and the Office of the Public Advocate estimates the impact on power prices of reducing the price difference between gas prices near the Marcellus shale deposits in Pennsylvania and the gas delivered by pipeline to New England.
Patrick Woodcock, director of the Governor’s Energy Office, said in a statement that the report illustrates a need to improve natural gas pipeline infrastructure and capacity in New England, an effort on which all six New England governors agreed to work. The newspaper reported that environmental groups have questioned whether greater dependence on natural gas is wise, recommending greater diversification of electricity generation sources. Prolonged cold weather this winter has increased demand for natural gas in the region, driving up prices.
Most Recent
Most Recent
Comments