After reading “Costly power upgrade to boost renewables will test Maine’s commitment” (Feb. 28), describing the issues regarding the electrical grid structure in Maine and renewables, I cannot but express wonder at the statements by David Flanagan, Central Maine Power executive chairman, and John Flynn, Versant’s president.

Solar panels are installed in Falmouth in 2017. Power-grid upgrades complicate the state’s long-term strategy for dramatic cuts in Maine’s carbon emissions. Ben McCanna/Staff Photographer, File

Flanagan wants us to believe that CMP does not have to be “beaten like dogs to get us to do anything.” But that is exactly what had to happen in the latest maneuver by CMP when it said that regarding solar farms, CMP’s substations would need million-dollar upgrades to connect the new generators.

After an uproar, CMP found ways to engineer less costly solutions; indeed, it needed a little goading after all. Flynn seems to be annoyed with other electrical providers that offer renewable forms of generating electrical power. They have the nerve to want to be part of an energy solution! I believe both of these men and the companies they represent are resistant to any change they cannot control. I have not been impressed by CMP’s performance over the years.

There are power grid issues across the United States as well as in Maine and no matter how it’s done, it will cost money. The upper management of CMP and Versant are the last people I want to see address complex grid issues. A better option would be to have both of these companies made into nonprofit organizations. Of course, that cannot be done quickly, but it can be done and it ought to be done.

Robert Miller
Falmouth