In recent weeks, we’ve been criticizing state government. (As editorial pages are wont to do.) It’s only fair, however, to also mention what’s been working well in Augusta. There’s one state agency whose performance, both recently and during the past few months, has earned our sincere applause.

Please stand up, Maine Public Utilities Commission.

It’s a low-profile group, but the MPUC has risen to challenges levied from lawmakers and the public during the past few months. As the lead agency reviewing the landmark Verizon-FairPoint sale, its hard-line stance on sale conditions has benefited Maine consumers, while bending both telecommunications giants.

On Dec. 26, the MPUC will again deliberate on the sale. The agency, through its harsh conditions on the proposed terms, forced Verizon and FairPoint to negotiate a better deal. Vermont regulators rejected the sale on Friday, but likely as a precursor to negotiate stipulations similar to those in Maine.

If ready, Maine regulators should approve the sale on Dec. 26. We feel the state is better served by the company that wishes to be here, rather than the company all-too-willing to abandon us.

The PUC’s in-depth examination of Maine’s electricity future – without being tied into ISO-New England – is another example of its fine work. Tasked with a daunting political, regulatory, economic and consumer issue, the agency delivered a fine document that provides a blueprint for lawmakers.

And the agency looks prescient in its focus on copper thefts, given the high-profile, daring burglaries across Maine. Protecting industrial copper, which is costing taxpayers and consumers thousands of dollars, is essential. The MPUC has stepped up, even though it’s far from a law enforcement body.

There’s always something to bemoan in Augusta. Missing money, revenue shortfalls, shortsighted politicking…these are par for the course. And we’re quite guilty of focusing on the negative.

The MPUC, however, has separated itself from the pack. It’s taken on the controversial, the challenging and the complex, and delivered policies with strength and foresight.

Now, if only all state agencies worked this well.