MEMA MAG Summer 2023

MEMA MAG

Advocacy, Leadership, & Education for Maine’sEnergy Marketers

NORTHERN NEW ENGLAND ENERGY CONFERENCE

LAWMAKERS BREAK CAMPAIGN PROMISE TO PROTECT MAINERS’ HOME HEATING CHOICES

• IMPACTS OF ZERO EMISSION TRUCKS

• CFESA & MTEC

• AND MORE!

MEMA MAG is a quarterly magazine designed to engage and communicate with members with useful, timely, and memberrelated content. MEMA MAG will be published four times a year.

Do you have a suggestion for MEMA MAG? Would you like to ADVERTISE? Contact Hannah Estes, Business Manager at MEMA. Email her at hestes@maineenergymarketers.com or call 207-729-5298.

Copyright 2023 Maine Energy Marketers Association. All rights reserved. No part of this publication can be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording, or any information storage and retrieval system, without permission, in writing, from MEMA and/or the publisher. Printed in Maine, USA.

Dear MEMA Members,

With winter behind us and spring having now turned to summer, it seems fitting to take a few minutes to consider all that has transpired in the first half of 2023.

First, as you will see in Megan Diver’s legislative report, MEMA was incredibly successful in Augusta this session, with all our major legislative initiatives, except one, being passed and signed into law. The one bill that did not pass, LD 894, “An Act to Preserve Heating and Energy Choice by Prohibiting a Municipality from Prohibiting a Particular Energy System or Energy Distributor,” is critically important to Maine’s liquid fuels industry as it would have prevented efforts, which are now underway, by towns and cities to pass ordinances that ban liquid fuels and the appliances which use them.

Sponsored by Senator Matt Harrington and Co-Sponsored by Senate President Troy Jackson, LD 894 was initially passed out of the State and Local Government Committee with a bipartisan, unanimous vote. It appeared headed for approval by the full legislature. Unfortunately, pressure from inside and outside of the State House succeeded in getting the committee to reconsider their first vote resulting in a closely divided “Ought to Pass” second vote that was ultimately rejected by the full legislature. Despite this setback, our efforts this session to establish strong, positive relationships on both sides of the aisle paid off as many legislators—Democrats and Republicans—stood with us when it counted (see page 9). I urge you to take a moment to thank them and ask for their continued support because the energy debate will remain front and center, and this issue, the freedom to choose how we heat our homes and businesses, will remain one of MEMA’s top legislative priorities.

On a different note, I want to thank Charlie Burnham for his years of leadership and dedication to our industry. As Chairman of the Board over the past two years, Charlie’s

knowledge and experience, as well as his calm, confident demeanor has made a material difference in our knowledge and experience, as well as his calm, confident demeanor has made a material difference in our Association. MEMA’s new Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) training program, as well as MTEC’s new Commercial Kitchen Equipment class, are a direct result of his dogged determination to ensure that MEMA and MTEC lean forward by providing state-of-the-art training and educational opportunities that match the needs of our members. His laser focus and steady hand have strengthened our association and our school. From all of us, thank you, Charlie!

I also want to welcome our new chairman, Mike McCormack. Fortunately, Mike is not new to this role, having served as chairman during the COVID-19 pandemic and successfully leading us through one of the most challenging periods in our history. His experience will prove invaluable as we face changes within our industry, hostile legislative and regulatory environments, and the constant need to improve our association and the services and benefits we provide. Welcome back, Mike!

Before I sign off, I want to acknowledge your dedicated MEMA/MTEC staff: Megan Diver, Hannah Estes, Sarah Nadeau, Colleen Ege, Meghan Sylvester, Roger Mitchell, Jon Green, and our legislative consultant Jon Courtney. In our ever-changing world, this group of hard-working men and women truly make a difference for you every day!

Looking forward to seeing you in the field!

Charlie

MEET OUR TEAM BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EXECUTIVE BOARD

MARC LACASSE | AUGUSTA FUEL COMPANY

MATT POOLE | COLBY & GALE

ROGER ARSENAULT | COMMUNITY ENERGY

CARTER VAILLANCOURT | DAIGLE OIL COMPANY

MICHAEL MCCORMACK | DOWNEAST ENERGY

MICHAEL ESTES | ESTES OIL & PROPANE

MAX MARSTON | FABIAN OIL

JONATHAN MAPES | H.A. MAPES INC.-ALT.

CARRIE TOMFORDE | IRVING OIL

MARK GAGNON | P. GAGNON & SONS INC.

TIM HEUTZ | RINALDI ENERGY

MARK ST. GERMAIN | ST. GERMAIN

ASSOCIATION BOARD

JAMIE ROBINSON | A.E. ROBINSON OIL CO.

DAVID BABCOCK | ADAMS & FOGG OIL EQUIP, CO.

ROBERT SHIBLEY | BOB’S CASH FUEL LLC

PETER BUOTTE | COMMUNITY ENERGY CO. - ALT.

JEFF WEBB | EASTERN PROPANE & OIL, INC.

JIM PIKE | ENERGY KINETICS

JUDY DELANEY | GLOBAL PETROLEUM CORP.

BRIAN HOLMES | GLOBAL PETROLEUM CORP.-ALT.

TOM SCHWARM | GOULD TECHNOLOGIES

MATT HARRISON | GULF OIL, LP

JIM CARROLL | J.P. CARROLL FUEL CO.

STEVE NESS | NESS OIL COMPANY

ROBERT TRACY | R.H. FOSTER ENERGY, LLC.

SEAN LYNCH | SID HARVEY’S

ELWIN SCOTT | SIMARD & SONS, INC.

KRISTYN SCHWEITZER | SPRAGUE ENERGY

PAULA PALMER | SPRAGUE ENERGY-ALT.

MICHAEL TAMMARO | V.L. TAMMARO OIL

COLLEEN EGE ADMIN ASSISTANT

ROGER MITCHELL MTEC DEAN

MICHAEL MCCORMACK CHAIR OF THE BOARD SUPERIOR PLUS PROPANE

CARTER VAILLANCOURT VICE CHAIR DAIGLE OIL CO.

STEVEN MCGRATH TREASURER HA MAPES, INC

KATIE FOSTER SECRETARY RH FOSTER ENERGY, LLC

CHARLIE SUMMERS PRESIDENT

MEGAN DIVER VICE PRESIDENT HANNAH ESTES BUSINESS MANAGER

SARAH NADEAU INSURANCE & OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR

MEGHAN SYLVESTER MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST

A REFLCTION ON THE INDUSTRY FROM OUR OUTGOING CHAIR, CHARLIE BURNHAM

“Be exceptional at what you do,” Charlie Burnham, outgoing MEMA board chair and former president of Charlie Burnham Energy and Heating, said when asked what advice he had to share with the younger generation entering the industry. “If you look at the companies that are succeeding in our industry, they are offering exceptional service and are striving to hire exceptional people.”

Charlie Burnham has worked in the heating and energy industry for over thirty-two years. When he and George Gyorgy opened their Freeport-based service company, they sought to create a professional, experienced, and honest company that prioritized timely delivery and installation of heating and cooling systems with superior quality and workmanship. Before starting his own company, Charlie worked for one of the nation’s large oil companies. However, his real start was at the age of thirteen, filling propane tanks at the filling station down the road from his house.

With energy growing harder to obtain and legislation pushing for more electrification, the challenges our industry faces are overwhelming and leave our future feeling uncertain. However, Charlie firmly believes the industry will stand as people will always need heat, hot water, and motor fuels. “Energy may be more difficult to get, equipment may become more complex, but our employees will become so much more valuable because they will have to know so much more [about the industry],” Charlie explained. Our fuel supplies are diversifying as renewable energy like wind, solar, and biofuels becomes a more popular means in reducing our emissions and increasing our energy efficiency.

“We’ve got to embrace change,” expressed Charlie. “Change is a very good thing. We cannot stop change. We must become a part of it.”

Public concern over climate change has steadily grown in recent years, and studies show that two-thirds of

Americans believe the government isn’t doing enough to curb the effects. As an energy company, staying on top of your customers’ needs and wants is critical. “To succeed, you have to ensure you’re selling what your customers want,” Charlie explained. This idea is undoubtedly something he practiced in his own career, as he first explored the possibilities of solar power back in the 1970s and then geothermal in the 80s.

And later, when he started his own company, he ensured his business model never grew stagnant. “Companies should reinvent themselves every five years,” said Charlie. He continuously sought ways to improve and grow as a premier home comfort provider, delivering exceptional service to southern Maine. And one of the ways Charlie sought that growth was through his involvement with the Maine Energy Marketer’s Association. “Associating with industry leaders, politicians, and manufacturers offered so much space to grow,” he explained. Charlie has been involved with MEMA for twenty-five years, and he levels that anyone participating with the organization will walk away with a greater depth of knowledge.

As his tenure as MEMA’s board chair ends, Charlie assures us that his involvement with MEMA is nowhere near over. He’s looking forward to becoming more involved with our Education Committee and perhaps sharing his wisdom by volunteering and teaching at MTEC. His proudest accomplishment as board chair is the CDL Theory Training and Hazmat Endorsements course at MTEC, which satisfies the Entry-Level Driver Training Classroom theory training required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The course is offered for free to MEMA members.

MEMA AND STAFF WISH TO THANK CHARLIE BURNHAM FOR HIS LEADERSHIP OVER THE PAST FEW YEARS.

NEW MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Fort Kent Powersports offers sales and service for all things BRP & Polaris®, including snowmobiles, ATVs, personal watercraft, crafted parts and accessories, and a full line of stylish garments and apparel to capture the attitude of their family of vehicles.

To learn more visit fortkentpowersports.com.

Plowman Builders is a full-service General Contractor dedicated to building healthy, sustainable, responsible homes. Founded in 2018 and based in Gorham, Maine.

For more information, contact Info@PlowmanBuilders.com.

PATTERSON FUEL HVAC MANN

Patterson Fuel is a family-owned business based in Winterport, Maine.

For more information, contact pattersonfuel@yahoo.com.

HVAC Mann is located in Steep Falls, Maine.

For more information, contact Robert Mann at (207) 553-0962.

JOIN US IN WELCOMING THE RETURN OF MICHAEL MCCORMACK AS MEMA’S NEW CHAIRMAN.

MIKE IS VICE PRESIDENT OF ENERGY-GROWTH AND INNOVATION LEADER AT DOWNEAST ENERGY. HE PREVIOUSLY SERVED AS CHAIRMAN OF THE MAINE ENERGY MARKETING ASSOCIATION BETWEEN 2019 AND 2021.

JOINING MCCORMACK AS A BOARD OFFICER IS CARTER VAILLANCOURT AS VICE CHAIR

Carter is Chief Operating Officer at Daigle Oil Company in Fort Kent, Maine

KATIE FOSTER AS SECRETARY

Katie is Executive Manager of General Counsel and Strategy at R. H. Foster Energy in Hampden, Maine

AND STEVEN MCGRATH IS RETURNING AS TREASURER

Steven is Chief Financial Officer at H.A. Mapes, INC. in Cape Elizabeth, Maine.

Of the 35 Senators of the 131st Maine Legislature, there are 22 Democrats and 13 Republicans. The Maine House consists of 151 Representatives. Of those, 81 are Democrats, 67 are Republicans, 2 are Independents, and currently 1 Vacancy.

The Democratic Party controls the offices of Governor, Secretary of State, Attorney General, and both chambers of the state legislature.

The Legislature has yet to adjourn at the time this was printed. The Legislature went home on Tuesday, June 27, and will be called back into session to complete their work on July 6. The Legislature carried over a lot more bill than is typical and were further behind on Committee meetings and voting on bills this session. This is in part due to the volume of bills printed this session. There were over 2,000, partly because the Legislature passed a majority budget in March. The majority budget needed to be passed 90 days prior to the end of the state fiscal year at the end of June for it to become law and avoid a state shutdown. If this hadn't been done, the budget would have needed a 2/3 vote from the Legislature to be an emergency bill and become law immediately upon the Governor's signature.

Due to the Legislature's political landscape, we knew we would be facing a tough first session of the 131st Legislature. MEMA had a lot of our own initiatives, but with our industry facing a lot of scrutiny by the current administration and the pricing, we knew we would be playing a lot of defense besides. MEMA was represented each day during the Legislative session by Megan Diver and Jon Courtney. Sometimes early in the morning until

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

late hours of the night.

Despite the challenges of the political landscape, MEMA made some historical accomplishments this session. While the Energy Choice bill did not go as we had hoped, many other accomplishments were made. For more information on the Energy Choice bill, please see the following story by

Maine Wire

MEMA ACCOMPLISHMENTS:

LD 319 An Act to Amend Maine's Underground Oil Storage Tank Laws

This bill removes the 10-year limitation on underground oil storage tanks, thereby allowing such double-walled tanks to continue in service indefinitely as long as the same testing requirements are satisfied. This bill is now Public Law, Chapter 16, and went into effect on June 30, 2023.

LD 755 An Act to Promote Higher Blends of Biofuel by Regulating the Sale or Transfer of Biofuels

This Law amends definitions applicable to the sale of biodiesel, biomass-based diesel, biomass-based diesel blends, and biodiesel blends according to meet the requirements of the most recent ASTM standards. This bill is now Public Law, Chapter 43, and will go into effect 90 days after the Legislature adjourns.

LD 1479 Resolve, Directing the Public Utilities Commission to Convene a Stakeholder Group Regarding Liquefied Propane Gas Systems and the Socalled Dig Safe Law

This resolve directs the Public Utilities Commission to convene a stakeholder group to discuss the provisions in law related to the "Dig Safe Law" regarding propane gas systems that have an underground tank or pipe, including recent amendments made to the law regarding propane gas systems and reducing the administrative burden on or possible exemption of certain propane gas systems from participation in the "Dig Safe Law." The resolve directs the commission to submit a report summarizing the stakeholder group's discussion and any recommended legislation to the Second Regular Session of the 131st Legislature. This bill is now Resolve, Chapter 47, and will go into affect 90 days after the Legislature adjourns.

LD 105 An Act to Prohibit Minimum Usage or Tank Rental Fees for Certain Propane Customers

This was a BIG defeat for the industry. This bill would have prohibited retail sellers of propane gas from charging customers who purchase propane gas for the sole purpose of powering residential backup power generators a minimum use fee or a tank rental fee based on usage. This would have been detrimental to MEMA's propane members. After a Divided report out of Committee, we prevailed and killed the bill when it came up for a vote in the House and Senate.

MEMA tracked 51 bills during the First Regular Session of the 131st Legislature. Of these bills, 23 are DEAD, 10 are now Public Laws, four are Resolves, eight will be carried over into the Second Legislative session, and six will likely be voted on when the Legislature returns in July. One of these bills is the State Flavor Ban on tobacco products.

If you have any questions about any of the bills MEMA followed this session or would like to see the complete list, please don't hesitate to reach out to Megan Diver at mdiver@maineenergymarketers.com.

Get a longer-lasting, stronger, low center-of-gravity tank! Cutting edge manufacturing techniques allow for an unforced and precise fit-up of components in our Transtech™ Tank line.

LAWMAKERS BREAK CAMPAIGN PROMISE TO PROTECT MAINERS’ HOME HEATING CHOICES

BY STEVE ROBINSON

The Maine House on Wednesday rejected a bill (76-71) that would have prohibited cities and towns in the state from implementing local ordinances to limit residents’ ability to choose natural gas and oil for home heating.

The day prior the Senate had also voted against the bill (15-19), effectively opening the door for any municipality in Maine to begin restricting the energy sources Mainers can choose for their homes or businesses.

More than 60 percent of Mainers rely on fuel oil for home heating, and natural gas continues to be a popular option for new home construction.

However, oil and gas have become Enemy Number One for the environmentalist left based on the belief that reducing oil and gas consumption will lower global temperatures.

Although no city or town has passed an ordinance yet, cities in southern Maine have openly telegraphed their interest in cracking down on fossil fuel-based energy for home heating — and even for lawn mowers.

The bill, LD 894, was a form of defense from Sen. Matt Harrington (R-York) against an escalation in future attacks on hydrocarbon-based energy.

The proposal took a serious blow when the Governor’s Energy Office testified unexpectedly against it in committee.

[RELATED: Baldacci Rips Gov Mills for Breaking Campaign Promise on Restrictive Energy Rules…]

That testimony came as a surprise to the Maine Energy Marketers Association (MEMA), a trade group that represents Maine’s oil and gas dealers, as well as more conservative Democratic lawmakers who backed the proposal.

Gov. Janet Mills signed a MEMA pledge vowing to veto bills that would limit the energy choices available to Mainers.

Opposing a bill that would have protected those choices was seen as a violation of the pledge by Sen. Joe Baldacci (D-Penobscot), who offered rare Democrat-on-Democrat criticism of the governor in a work session.

When Baldacci learned that Mills was opposing the bill, he let loose during a work session at the State and Local Government Committee

.

“I would note that the governor signed the energy choice pledge during the campaign last year, which was pretty explicit, and which is basically reflected by this bill,” Baldacci said.

“So it comes as a surprise the governor’s office is now advising us that the governor should be breaking her pledge was very public pledge. It was very much highlighted in the campaign. And it’s on record and it’s online,” he said.

Gov. Mills isn’t the only politician who, by Baldacci’s account, signed and broke the MEMA pledge.

Assistant Senate Majority Leader Mattie Daughtry (D-Cumberland), Sen. Mike Tipping (D-Penobscot), and Sen. Eloise Vitelli (D-Sagadahoc) all signed the MEMA pledge and then reneged on their campaign promises.

Senate President Troy Jackson (D-Aroostook), Sen. Margaret Rotundo (D-Androscoggin), and Sen. Baldacci all signed the pledge and voted in favor of the bill.

Two Republicans — Sen. Rick Bennett (R-Oxford) and Sen. Matt Pouliot (R-Kennebec) voted against the bill — but only Pouliot signed the pledge.

Although no Maine municipality has banned oil and natural gas, municipal officials in southern Maine have openly stated their ideological commitment to doing so.

In a 2021 document entitled “One Climate Future: Charting a Course for Portland and South Portland,” the cities articulated a social and industrial reorganization

plan that included efforts to phase out oil and natural gas uses.

In that plan, city officials said they intended to raise the cost for residents of heating homes with oil by using compliance ordinances in order to “incentivize” conversions to electric heating options.

“To further incentivize conversions, the Cities will consider adopting legislation requiring that any building owners with an active oil tank either update their tank to a code-compliant tank or decommission their tank by the end of 2028,” the report said.

“Such legislation would address rusting, corrosion, and leakage from older oil tanks; help to protect soil and groundwater; as well as establish a date by which building owners must invest in a new system, encouraging transition to renewable electric systems at that point, if not sooner,” it said.

The report also said that the cities would investigate whether they have the legal authority to institute bans on natural gas hookups in new construction.

“Once determined (or made) legally feasible, Portland and South Portland will map out a phased approach for

reducing natural gas use across the cities, starting with banning new natural gas hookups in new residential and commercial construction and substantial renovation,” the report states.

Behind the scenes, State House sources see former Maine House Speaker Hannah Pingree, currently the director of Mills’ Office of Policy Innovation and the Future, as the driving force behind the Mills Admin’s hostility to oil and gas.

Pingree’s mother, Rep. Chellie Pingree (D-Maine), recently posted a tweet sarcastically mocking Republican concerns about limitations on natural gas stoves. The younger Pingree, however, has openly supported those very limitations.

PROPANE BODIES

PPO Medical Plans with HDHP HSA

Compatible Options

Dental Premier Plans

(two options; a no deductible option; an option with orthodontia)

Vision Plans

(two options; one with annual exam)

Life/ AD&D with Dependent Life option

Individual Voluntary Life, Disability & Critical Illness Plans

Support and Choice:

Choose how many options to offer, your waiting periods and minimum hours required. You may offer all medical plans and needs

including medical, pharmacy, dental, vision and life plans as well as individual voluntary disability options to choose from trustee approval, MEMA allows new employers to come into the Health Insurance Trust anytime during the year without waiting for open enrollment

MEMA provides service, advocacy, materials and compliance employees

Maine Energy Marketers Association

Advocacy, Leadership, and Education for Maine’s Energy Marketers since 1954

MaineEnergyMarketers.com

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

Established in 1991, the Maine Oil Dealers Association

Workers’ Compensation Self-Insured Trust is funded by members of the Maine Energy Marketers Association, who of

have joined together to collectively insure their workers’ compensation exposure The plan provides coverage to several the Maine Energy Marketers Association membership

The self-insured program offers:

Competitive Pricing with an opportunity for refunds. Over time a total in the millions has

1 2 3 4 FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

Strong employer-directed safety and loss control programs to help avoid losses and promote premium stability. Customized loss prevention, aggressive claims management programs with a team of safety consultants and numerous training programs offered.

Leaving the commercial market with its everchanging pricing, and becoming part of a homogeneous group with risks and costs that are easier to quantify and manage.

Advocacy, Leadership, and Education for Maine’s Energy Marketers since 1954

MaineEnergyMarketers.com

Leavitt | Account Manager

NORTHERN NEW ENGLAND ENERGY CONFERENCE

Overlooking the White Mountains of New Hampshire, the Omni Mt. Washington Resort offered pictureperfect views and the finest location for the Sixth Annual Northern New England Energy Conference.

From Sunday, June 11 to Tuesday, June 13, over 200 industry professionals gathered at the beautiful Omni Mt. Washington Resort for networking, education, plentiful food, and drinks. Thank you to our many sponsors and vendors who made this event possible.

The conference kicked off on a sunny Sunday afternoon, with each State holding its respective board meetings. Then the exhibits opened, and all attendees were invited to engage with our esteemed vendors during the Welcome Reception and enjoy the signature Petro Punch cocktail, sponsored by Bangor Savings Bank.

The evening continued with dinner and MEMA's Longevity Awards. EMANH honored the family of their recently departed, Lisa Jo Steiner. After dinner, attendees gathered around fire pits to enjoy the sunset or headed to "The Cave" for a hospitality gathering.

Monday morning opened with breakfast followed by education seminars. The first session featured a presentation by Rebecca Brewster, President of the American Transportation Research Institute. Brewster presented results from multiple studies documenting the critical challenges of nationwide vehicle electrification and the impacts of zero-emissions trucks.

The sessions then widened its lens as three industry experts discussed the region's and country's current policy trends. On this panel were Sean Cota, President and CEO of the National Energy & Fuel Institute, Michael Giaimo, Northeast Regional Director of American Petroleum Institute, and Rob Underwood, President of the Energy Marketers of America.

The third and final education session featured a panel on energy emergency preparedness and response. The panelists included Steven Mallory, director of Operations and Response for Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA); Deborah Lord, Maine's State Exercise Officer; Faith Staples, Technological Hazards Program Manager for MEMA; and Dr. Robert Christensen, State Emergency Operations Center Manager for New Hampshire's Homeland Security and Emergency Management.

At noon, the annual golf tournament commenced, and the humid, gray clouds that filled the morning sky began to clear, resulting in a perfect afternoon. Those who didn't play golf enjoyed lunch in the garden and explored the local activities like horseback riding and mountain biking.

Attendees reconnected for the Vendor Blender in the

evening, featuring hors d'oeuvres, cocktails, and a vendor gift raffle. The night concluded with a delicious BBQ dinner outside in the gardens, accompanied by music from the talented Quiet Riot Act.

A huge thank you to all of those who attended the conference this year, as well as the vendors and presenters whose efforts made this year's conference a memorable one.

WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU NEXT YEAR, JUNE 17-19, AT THE HARBORSIDE OCEAN RESORT IN BAR HARBOR, MAINE, FOR THE 2024 NORTHERN NEW ENGLAND ENERGY CONFERENCE.

Megan & Ava

MEMA'S Vice President, Megan Diver, and her husband, Justin, welcomed Ava Rose on Tuesday, April 18th, at 8:19 AM with a full head of brown hair.

Ava was born weighing 5 lbs, 14 oz, and 18 inches long. Ava visited her MEMA family at the office and attended her first of many NNEECs. Megan, Justin, Hazel, and Ava are enjoying life as a family of four, with weekend outings to Harpswell and many family walks. Ava has started laughing, smiling, and has started to have her own little personality. She loves Hazel kisses, rocking, walking, and any type of movement and noise, including the vacuum and lights.

LIFE REQUIRES A GREAT HEALTHCARE PLAN

from an Experienced TPA You Can Count On

These days, employees need easy access to quality healthcare and a plan designed to meet their unique needs. For an increasing number of employers, that means a Self-Funded plan for flexibility and cost control plus a mobile app that places access to benefits, providers and cost transparency tools right in your member’s hands.

Diversified Group is proud to partner with members of the Maine Energy Marketers Association. To give your employees 24/7 access to benefits and greater peace of mind, contact us today.

369 North Main Street | PO Box 299 | Marlborough, CT 06447 ph 888-322-2524 | dgb-online.com

2ND HALF OF 2023 COURSE SCHEDULE

HVAC PRO:

HVAC PROFESSIONAL SEMESTER CLASS

Member $13,750 Non-Member $15,250 (includes tool bag valued over $1500)

Sep 25 – Feb 2, 2024

OIL:

OIL HEAT TECHNICIAN TRAINING

Member $3,775 Non-Member $4,175

Night Class: Sep 5 – Dec 7

Sep 25 – Nov 3

PROPANE/NG:

APPLIANCE INSTALLATION & SERVICE w/ Basics

Member $3,225 Non-Member $3,525

Aug 21 – Sep 29

Sep 6 – Oct 7

Nov 13 – Dec 18

TANKSETTER & OUTSIDE PIPING w/ Basics

Member $1,400 Non-Member $1,600

Aug 14 – Aug 25

Oct 2 – Oct 13

Oct 30 – Nov 10

DELIVERY TECHNICIAN w/ Basics

Member $1000 Non-Member $1200

Oct 23 – Oct 27

LARGE EQUIPMENT

Member $750 Non-Member $950

Oct 18 – Oct 20

AC-R, HEAT PUMPS:

REFRIGERANT HANDLING AND EPA CERTIFICATION

Member $1,000 Non-Member $1,150

Aug 28 – Aug 31

Nov 6 – Nov 9

BASIC SERVICE PROCEDURES FOR AC & REFRIGERATION

Member $1,050 Non-Member $1,200

Sep 1 – Sep 8

Nov 13 – Nov 17

40 HOUR HEAT PUMP TRAINING

Member $1,050 Non-Member $1,200

Sep 18 – Sep 22

Nov 29 – Dec 5

CFESA FOODSERVICE EQUIPMENT

TRAINING CLASS:

Member $1,200 Non-Member $2,000

Sep 18 – Sep 22

Nov 29 – Dec 5

ONE AND TWO DAY CLASSES:

A2L & HYDRO CARBOB REFRIGERANT SAFETY & RECOVERY

Member $210 Non-Member $240

Sep 11, Nov 20

LOW VOLTAGE WIRING / POWER

SHARING THERMOSTATS

Member $210 Non-Member $240

Sep 12, Nov 21

ADVANCED COMBUSTION SET UP & TESTING

Member $210 Non-Member $240

Sep 13, Nov 22

INTRODUCTION TO DUAL FUEL AND HYBRID HEATING SYSTEMS

Member $420 Non-Member $480

Sep 14 – Sep 15

Nov 27 – Nov 28

EXAM PREP:

MAINE STATE OILBURNER EXAM PREP (JOURNEYMAN & MASTER)

Member $199 Non-Member $299

Sep 9

EXAM PREP-APPLIANCE CONNECTION & SERVICE, NFPA#54

Member $199 Non-Member $299

Sep 16

EXAM PREP-TANK SETTER & OUTSIDE PIPING AND DELIVERY, NFPA#58

Member $199 Non-Member $299

Sep 23

MTEC UPDATE

Over the spring, MTEC made some significant updates to the lab that allows the school to expand the knowledge base of technicians who complete its programs and remain up-to-date on the latest technology used in the industry. For example, the venting in the gas lab was upgraded to a higher temperature-rated polypropylene material. A boiler and warm air furnace that burns B50 and B100 biofuel were added to the oil lab, allowing students to work hands-on with biofuel and train on biofuel equipment. Finally, all curriculums have been reviewed, and major enhancements were made to the Heat Pump Training course.

In the classroom, the center has been running at or near capacity throughout the spring and summer. MTEC launched four new courses, Introduction to Dual Fuel and Hybrid Heating Systems, Low Voltage Wiring/Power Sharing Thermostats, Advanced Combustion Setup and Testing, and a Commercial Food Service Equipment Training course. The school is also hosting five days of factory-certified heat pump training in July. Representatives from Samsung, Mitsubishi, Fujitsu, and Daikin will visit the MTEC and provide certificates of training. These service trainings are in high demand, with almost all five days being full.

In August, P3 Propane Safety will join MTEC in Brunswick to teach Operator Qualification training. Additionally, Carlin Combustion and R. W. Beckett factory representatives will visit the center for "Burner Days," granting factory-certified hands-on training of oil burners.

At the end of June, MTEC hosted the first "Meet the Grads" of the year, as all prior courses were filled with already employed students. The event was a major success, with attendance from member companies like Dead River Company, Mechanical Services, Maritime Energy, Fabian Oil, Brancato's Heating, AirTemp Inc., and Johnson & Jordan.

MTEC is always looking to attend career fairs and industry events, as well as host tours of the school to share all that MTEC has to offer. To schedule a tour, or notify MTEC of upcoming events, email Meghan at msylvester@maineenergymarketers.com.

COMMERCIAL FOOD SERVICE EQUIPMENT TRAINING COURSE

In May, MTEC launched a new five-day Commercial Food Service Equipment Training course, allowing students to work hands-on with gas, refrigeration, electric, and steam equipment used in convenience stores and the restaurant industry.

Technicians who completed the course received a certificate from MTEC & Commercial Food Equipment Service Association (CFESA).

The next class is scheduled for September 18 - 22 and then again for November 29 - December 5.

You can register for the course and other MTEC classes at mtecenter.com/courses or call the office at 207-729-5298 with questions about the course and requirements.

DOUBLE-WALL 2 IN 1 OIL TANKS BY

MATT WOTTON

When it comes time to install a new oil tank, several tank options are available for consideration. Recently, there is one option that has risen to the top. Pricing, longevity, and convenience certainly are factors. New codes and regulations, concerns over containment, and potential environmental impacts all need to be considered. Doublewall 2 in 1 oil tanks meet all these needs and more.

These oil tanks have become the best option for new installations and upgrades for oil storage. 2 in 1 double wall tanks offer great options for indoor, outdoor, and multiple tank applications. Double-wall 2 in 1 oil tanks offer many advantages over traditional steel tanks, and the overall installation costs have leveled out in recent years. Double-wall 2 in 1 oil tanks effectively protect against costly oil spills and provide a neat and clean installation. I highly recommend offering a double wall 2 in 1 tank as an option for every oil tank installation.

Granby Industries offers a strong and highly competitive solution in the 2 in 1 oil tank market. They offer compelling talking points to encourage home and business owners to feel confident about remaining with oil.

• B100 bio-fuel ready

• 30-year Warranty

• Industry leading insurance policy

• Robust floor stand made entirely of galvanized steel

• Optimal for space utilization: suited for basements with headroom as low as 60" and narrow doorways of only 28" wide

• Easy carrying and manipulation thanks to its light weight and welded ergonomic handles

• Tank comes with all required accessories for installation

• Approved for lubricant storage

• Certified odor barrier for fuel oil tanks. Using a process called fluorination to make specific modifications to the surface properties of plastics, such as wettability and permeation resistance. It has been a process used in the automotive industry for over ten years to reduce the permeation of fuel vapors from the tanks of motor vehicles.

• Included Accessories:

• 2" NPT galvanized steel fill pipe adaptor

• Low pressure vent and overfill protection alarm

• Oil level gauge

• Oil burner supply duplex bushing with tube adaptors

• Optional rain cover is mandatory for outdoor installation

• Optional tie down kit available for outdoor installation

Granby’s 2 in 1 double wall oil tank is available in a 190-gallon (720 L) and a 265-gallon (1,000 L) option. The connection fittings on the top of the tank are made from galvanized steel to ensure firm and solid connections to the fill and vent piping. Graby double wall 2 in 1 tank has a 30-year warranty and includes a manufacturer insurance policy that is the best in the industry. The warranty and insurance do not require special training or certification and come standard with all tank sales. Trim materials for set up and installation come standard with the tank and do not require additional skews.

More information and detailed installation instructions can be found online at www.granbyindustries.com.

Next time you encounter a situation requiring a new oil tank, I would strongly encourage giving a double-wall 2 in 1 oil tank a look.

Matt Wotton Fuel Products Market Manager

TIRED OF DELAYED IRS TAX REFUNDS?

EMA MEMBER SERVICE BENEFIT WITH IRS-APPROVED E-FILE COMPANY

“THINKTRADE” TO HELP STREAMLINE IRS TAX REFUNDS

On May 10, the Energy Marketers of America (EMA) announced an exclusive member service agreement with ThinkTrade, an IRS-authorized e-filing service provider and a BBB-accredited company with an A+ rating, enabling safe and secured filing for taxpayers. ThinkTrade will grant EMA member companies a 15 percent discount off ThinkTrade’s e-filing services through a dedicated landing page to prepare, file and pay federal excise tax returns on IRS Forms 720, 8849, and 2290.

With over two decades of experience serving customers, ThinkTrade has a proven track record of delivering savings and support to trucking companies of all types and sizes when filing federal excise taxes. Energy marketers will also have access to ThinkTrade’s dedicated 24/7/365 support team, which provides one point of contact for all e-filing service needs.

EMA President Rob Underwood said, “In these times of IRS delays in processing paper claims, I encourage energy marketers to file IRS tax claims electronically to avoid processing delays. For the last 20 years,

ThinkTrade has been helping organizations simplify and reduce tax filing expenses. We look forward to growing this new relationship and helping our members to reduce spending on filing taxes required for operations.”

“We are pleased to be selected as the preferred e-file provider for Energy Marketers of America and look forward to helping EMA members streamline their tax filings and reduce costs,” said Satish Sivaraman, ThinkTrade’s Head of Operations.

For more information about ThinkTrade and EMA’s landing page to file taxes, please visit taxexcise.com/ema/.