Bangor Hydro-Electric Seeks to Retire Utility-Owned Generation

Bangor Hydro-Electric Company has filed at the Maine PUC to retire and remove from service its Medway #1, #2, #3, and #4 diesel generating units, as well as its Young's Corner #2 and #3 diesel generating units.

BHE retained ownership of the units, which are about 2 MW each, after restructuring because such units were, "necessary for the utility to perform its obligations as a transmission and distribution utility in an efficient manner."

The diesel units have been used primarily for transmission support, including voltage support, emergency back up, and to provide needed capacity during line maintenance

However, BHE said that new EPA rules, along with ongoing maintenance of the 50-year old units, result in the costs of retaining the units outweighing the benefits to customers. These units are also no longer necessary for contingency or voltage support.