I live in Maine. a beautiful state. There are some real problems that need to be addressed.

I fail to see why Maine residents pay 15.8 cents per-kilowatt hour when Canada is paying six cents, and states to the south are paying 10 cents. We are paying the third-highest rates in the whole United States. New York and Hawaii have comparable rates, but we do not have comparable wages here.

Why are we getting stuck with this?

I have talked to people at Central Maine Power, and they say it’s not their fault, that it’s a complicated problem.

This needs to be straightened out. It seems nearly impossible for Mainers to get a fair rate.

On another matter, I find that on a regular basis, I can get gas in Augusta 15 cents cheaper than in Farmington.

Does it cost 15 cents more to get each gallon to Farmington? I don’t believe it.

I have experience in retail, and know that competition keeps that industry in check, usually. But that can change in a heartbeat. Utilities and big oil aren’t the same as the retail industry.

The public needs someone to help straighten this stuff out. We don’t stand much chance against big oil or utilities. They have had a free run for way too long.

Things need to change.

Greg Blevins, Phillips