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Public advocate wants CMP investigation

CMP says it has made improvements, but Maine's public advocate, who represents consumers, says the problems still exist.

Maine's utility regulators are expected to decide Tuesday whether to start a full investigation into the problem with Central Maine Power bills.

Thousands of people have complained about spikes in their bills since last December, which was the same time that CMP started using a new billing system.

RELATED: State's public advocate calls audit of CMP 'incomplete,' requests full investigation

An audit ordered by the PUC said those meter and billing systems work properly but blamed the company for not having enough trained staff to properly operate the billing system.

The company says it has made improvements, but Maine's Public Advocate, who represents consumers, says the problems still exist. Barry Hobbins wants a full investigation of what's gone wrong.

"I'm hoping that tomorrow the PUC will call for further investigation based upon public outcry," Hobbins said. "People are not very happy and I believe not satisfied with the initial findings with respect to billing issues and metering. I think everyone is unanimous that CMP dropped the ball when it came to consumer assistance. And the ability to provide good consumer care."

Hobbins says thousands of CMP customers have documented that their bills increased by more than fifty percent compared to the previous year. He says there are still many "unanswered questions," which is why he wants a full PUC investigation.

CMP’s spokeswoman said again Monday that if there is a further investigation, the company wants it independent of the current CMP rate hike case, which is ongoing. Barry Hobbins agreed the billing probe should be separate from the rate case.

The spokesman for the Public Utilities Commission says they will discuss Hobbins' request for a full investigation at Tuesday’s meeting, and will take a vote on what should happen next with the CMP case.

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