WASHINGTON (AP) – Several New England governors are asking federal energy regulators to delay action on what they say will be a costly and ineffective new electricity pricing program for the region.

The ISO New England proposal, which would create new rate zones and incentives to companies, was approved by a judge in Boston last week.

The plan could increase prices for some Connecticut, Maine and Boston area consumers, is expected to be considered by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission this fall. If approved, it would take effect in January 2006.

The governors said that up to 1,500 jobs in Maine could be lost “as a result of the decrease in consumer spending.”