Phil Bartlett to Step Down as Chair of the Maine Public Utilities Commission

On September 15, 2026, Governor Janet Mills announced that Phil Bartlett will step down as Chair of the Maine Public Utilities Commission (PUC) effective October 9, 2026. Bartlett is departing for an opportunity in the private sector. The transition marks a significant leadership change at the state agency responsible for regulating Maine’s electric, natural gas, telecommunications, and water utilities.

Bartlett’s Tenure at the PUC

Bartlett was first appointed to the Commission by Governor Mills in June 2019 and was reappointed to a second six-year term in 2025. During his seven years leading the Commission, Bartlett oversaw a number of notable initiatives. Under his leadership, the PUC incorporated elements of performance-based regulation for electric utilities, establishing metrics designed to ensure that customers receive tangible benefits when utilities seek rate increases. He also played a central role in advancing regional transmission planning, contributing to the development of the nation’s first regional long-term transmission planning process through ISO New England. That process resulted in the selection of a project that includes a new Maine substation capable of supporting at least 1,200 megawatts of onshore wind.

The Commission also significantly expanded the state’s Low-Income Assistance Program during Bartlett’s tenure, broadening eligibility and increasing annual funding from $7.8 million to $33 million.

What Happens Next

Under Maine law, the Governor appoints members to the PUC, subject to review by the Legislature’s Joint Standing Committee on Energy, Utilities and Technology and confirmation by the full Legislature. The Governor also designates one commissioner as Chair. Because Bartlett is departing mid-term—his second term runs through March 2031—the vacancy will be filled by appointment for the unexpired portion of that term.

In the interim, Commissioner Patrick Scully, the senior-most member of the Commission, will serve as Acting PUC Chair until a permanent replacement is nominated by the next Governor and confirmed by the Maine Senate. Scully has served on the Commission since 2021. Commissioner Scully and Celina Cunningham, Acting Commissioner of the Maine Department of Energy Resources, will also serve as Governor Mills’ appointed co-managers to the board of the New England States Committee on Electricity (NESCOE).

Looking Ahead

A change in PUC leadership can have meaningful implications for the pace and direction of energy regulation in Maine, particularly as the state continues to navigate grid reliability, rate design, and the expansion and integration of renewable energy resources. Stakeholders—including utilities, developers, municipalities, and large energy consumers—will want to watch the nomination and confirmation process closely.

For questions about how this leadership transition may affect your business or regulatory matters, please reach out to a member of Verrill’s Energy group.