Specifications include, but are not limited to: Review the electric rates and rate design in effect when the council is developing its recommendations, projected changes in those rates, and the policy goals and other factors contributing to projected changes in those rates. Review electric assistance programs in existence when the council is developing its recommendations, including those programs implemented pursuant to Title 35-A M.R.S. S ection 3214. Consider more streamlined and cost-effective options to provide assistance to all ratepayers that may be struggling to pay their electric utility bills. These options may include an electric utility relief program that provides assistance to individuals receiving benefits under a state or federal low-income assistance program or whose family income is equal to or below 200% of the federal nonfarm income official poverty line. Identify methods to: Fund electric assistance programs that do not result in shifting costs to ratepayers; Improve education and outreach efforts regarding electric assistance programs, the retail electricity supply market and energy efficiency programs; and Make energy efficiency programs more accessible to low-income, moderate income and small business ratepayers, including those ratepayers that rent housing accommodations or commercial spaces. Identify any other methods that may improve the affordability of electricity.
