Community Choice Aggregation in Maine: A New Path for Local Energy Leadership 

On April 6th, 2026, a new bill LD 2112 passed allowing for municipalities in Maine to implement Community Choice Aggregation (CCA) programs within their community to take a more active role in planning their local energy future. CCA offers the potential for more competitive electricity supply pricing, greater budget stability, and the ability to align energy procurement with long‑term community goals. 

What Is CCA  

At a high level, Community Choice Aggregation allows for municipalities to combine local electricity demand of residents and small commercial customers to negotiate electricity supply contracts on their behalf. By purchasing power collectively, communities can secure more favorable rates, contract terms, and renewable energy options than individual customers typically receive through the utility's standard offer service. In neighboring states, CCA programs have demonstrated a wide range of success in lowering consumer costs and supporting long-term energy goals.  

Why CCA Works

Maine's energy landscape is rapidly evolving, and many ratepayers have experienced significant increases in electricity costs driven by factors outside their control such as natural gas prices, weather patterns, and global market conditions. Municipalities that take charge in actively monitoring these market trends now have the ability to time their procurement strategy and purchase supply contracts when the market is favorable, securing long term value to residents. LD 2112 enables communities to participate, but its benefits are realized through thoughtful planning and execution. 

How CCA Is Implemented and who can participate 

LD 2112 requires municipalities to create a PUC‑approved CCA Plan, which means early conversations around goals are essential. Some towns are focused on stabilizing rates after years of volatility, while others see CCA as an opportunity to advance renewable energy or align with local climate goals. These different priorities influence procurement strategy, contract structure, and the overall design of the program. Once a program is in place, residential and small commercial customers on utility default service are automatically enrolled, with the option to opt out at any time. Medium and large commercial customers, net‑metered customers, and LIAP participants are excluded from CCA programs in Maine. 

Looking ahead

With the passage of LD 2112, communities can begin the conversations around CCA with a trusted advisor now. Likely sometime this summer, the Maine Public Utilities Commission (PUC) will begin the rule making processes and define a more concrete avenue for implementation. As more Maine towns move from exploration to implementation, the focus will shift toward ongoing program evaluation and refinement. CCA is not a one‑time decision, it is a long‑term procurement strategy that evolves with market conditions and community goals. By taking a proactive stance, communities can see the full benefit of rate stability, contract flexibility, and local energy resilience.