MEMA MAG Winter 2023

MEMA

MAG WINTER 2023

ADVOCACY, LEADERSHIP, & EDUCATION FOR MAINE’S ENERGY MARKETERS

11

MYTH OR FACT ABOUT PROPANE AND THE ENVIRONMENT

12

STATUS OF VISA/MASTERCARD SWIPE FEE CLAIMS PROCESS

23 EFFICIENCY MAINE'S REVERSAL ON

"WHOLE HOME" REBATE PROGRAM

P R O U D LY

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CONTENTS 05 06 08 09 11 12 14 15 16 19 21 23 24 25 26

WINTER 2023•Volume 6•Issue 4

Meet Our Team & Board of Directors From the Desk of Charlie Summers 2024 Upcoming Events MEMA Committees + Trusts

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Myth or Fact About Propane + the Environment EMA Update

Status of Visa/Mastercard Swipe Fee Claims Process

Energy Pac For Maine

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New Member Spotlight Legislative Update 2023 Dealer Meetings Highlight Tech Corner

By Matt Wotton, The Granite Group

Efficiency Maine's Reversal on "whole Home" Rebate Program MTEC Donations Recap

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.

MTEC 2024 Course Schedule

Do you have a suggestion for MEMA MAG? Would you like to ADVERTISE? Contact Meghan Sylvester, Communications & Marketing Specialist at MEMA. Email her at msylvester@ maineenergymarketers.com or call 207-729-5298.

MEMA's Colleen Earns Oilheat Certification

ON THE COVER: Photo courtesty of the Maine State Archives

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. maineenergymarketers.com

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One Source, Many Solutions.

TerraVest Industries offers buying, renting, or leasing of durable and high-quality propane storage and transport equipment through our family of companies.

Don Nichols - New England Territory Manager 207-737-9704 | dnichols@terravestsales.com For more information, visit terravestindustries.com.

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MEMA MAG | Winter 2023

MEET OUR TEAM

CHARLIE SUMMERS PRESIDENT

MEGAN DIVER

VICE PRESIDENT

ROGER MITCHELL

DAVID CUPKA

MTEC DEAN

HANNAH ESTES

BUSINESS MANAGER

MTEC INSTRUCTOR

COLLEEN EGE

ADMIN ASSISTANT

SARAH NADEAU

INSURANCE & OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR

MEGHAN SYLVESTER

MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST

BOARD OF DIRECTORS EXECUTIVE BOARD MATT POOLE | COLBY & GALE ROGER ARSENAULT | COMMUNITY ENERGY CARTER VAILLANCOURT | DAIGLE OIL COMPANY CASEY CRAMTON | DEAD RIVER COMPANY MICHAEL MCCORMACK | DOWNEAST ENERGY MICHAEL ESTES | ESTES OIL & PROPANE MAX MARSTON | FABIAN OIL CARRIE TOMFORDE | IRVING OIL MARK GAGNON | P. GAGNON & SONS INC. KATIE FOSTER | RH FOSTER ENERGY, LLC. TIM HEUTZ | RINALDI ENERGY MARK ST. GERMAIN | ST. GERMAIN STEVEN MCGRATH

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

MICHAEL MCCORMACK

CARTER VAILLANCOURT

DOWNEAST ENERGY

DAIGLE OIL CO.

CHAIR OF THE BOARD

VICE CHAIR

STEVEN MCGRATH TREASURER

JIM CARROLL | J.P. CARROLL FUEL CO. STEVE NESS | NESS OIL COMPANY ROBERT TRACY | RH FOSTER ENERGY, LLC. - ALT. 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

KATIE FOSTER SECRETARY

RH FOSTER ENERGY, LLC

maineenergymarketers.com

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FROM THE DESK OF

6

It's time to put 2023 behind us and welcome 2024. In doing so, it's only proper to first thank you, our members, for your help and support throughout the year. You are not only the backbone of our industry but, as small businesses, the backbone of Maine's economy. As we reflect on everything that has happened over the past 12 months and all that we have accomplished together, let's not forget to give thanks for our blessings of family and friends and how very fortunate we are to live in the United States of America. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

safety at risk. Below is an excerpt from the letter that the Executive Director of Efficiency Maine, Michael Stoddard, sent to let me know that his agency had dropped this ill-conceived requirement:

Speaking of being fortunate, I want to briefly highlight some of the successes that we have had in 2023. First, because of hard work and a lot of "shoe leather," your MEMA team was able to press Efficiency Maine to drop their requirement that Mainers must disconnect, make inoperable, or make inconvenient the use of their existing oil or gas boilers/furnaces to qualify for the "Whole Home" heat pump rebate program. Efficiency Maine's reversal (see page 23) was a direct result of MEMA and our coalition partners PGANE and Summit Natural Gas directly contacting the Governor, Legislative Leaders, the State Fire Marshall, and the Maine Fuel Board to convince them to stop this incredibly shortsighted proposal, which could have put Maine citizens personal

This change in Efficiency Maine's position means homeowners won't have to abandon their existing oil, propane, or natural gas heating systems to get a rebate from Efficiency Maine. Most importantly, it puts safety first.

MEMA MAG | Winter 2023

“While we review the effectiveness of this approach through projects that are installed in the coming months, we will not require that any parts be disconnected, locked out, or fastened with a zip tie. This modification is effective immediately and is being communicated to contractors and consumers today.”

We also had several other successes at the Statehouse this year. Specifically, we were able to work with legislators to: PASS INTO LAW - LD 319 AN ACT TO AMEND MAINE'S UNDERGROUND OIL STORAGE TANK LAWS Removed the 10-year limitation on underground oil storage tanks, allowing double-walled tanks to continue in service indefinitely if

pressure and leak testing requirements are satisfied.

PASS INTO LAW - 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 required the Maine Public Utilities Commission to convene a stakeholder group, which MEMA and several MEMA members were a part of, to study and recommend ways to improve the Dig Safe reporting requirements and report recommended changes to the Legislature by December of 2023.

PASS INTO LAW - LD 755 AN ACT TO PROMOTE HIGHER BLENDS OF BIOFUEL BY REGULATING THE SALE OR TRANSFER OF BIOFUELS Provides clarity to current law to more accurately reflect renewable fuels available today and support an increased blending level of biofuels in diesel and heating oil.

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

there are ways we can better serve you or enhance your membership experience, please reach out to us at 207729-5298.

Beyond legislative victories, our dedication to education shines through the updates at MTEC. Dean Roger Mitchell's work in enhancing course offerings ensures that Maine's next generation of HVAC professionals receive top-notch training, paving the way for a bright future.

Wishing you a joyful holiday season and a prosperous New Year filled with success, happiness, and continued collaboration.

As we close this chapter and open a new one, we invite you to continue being an integral part of MEMA. If

Charlie

maineenergymarketers.com

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MEMA MAG | Winter 2023

MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE

MEMA

This committee is responsible for establishing policies that will grow the organization by attracting new members and retaining existing members through clear focus on ensuring and delivering superior value to members.

Chair: Mark St. Germain, St. Germain

COMMITTEES & TRUSTS

EDUCATION COMMITTEE

Every member of MEMA is eligible to sit on one or more of the Association’s Committees. All of MEMA’s operations are based on the “one company, one vote” principle. Each & every member company counts as each has one single vote. The largest member has one vote – the smallest member has one vote. We believe every company’s opinion is important and is weighed equally. Whether your opinion is brought to the table and voiced, however, is up to YOU!

Chair: Roger Arsenault, Community Energy

This committee is responsible for establishing policies, providing advice, and assisting staff to guide planning and oversight of technical training and management level seminars for MTEC and the association.

GOLF COMMITTEE This committee is responsible for the planning, fundraising, and execution of the Association’s annual golf events.

Chair: Rob Wilkes, Colby & Gale

HEALTH INSURANCE TRUST HEATING FUELS LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE This Committee is responsible for setting association policy on heating fuels issues including Propane, Heating Oil, and Liquid Biofuels.

Chair: Open

CONVENIENCE RETAILING AND TRANSPORTATION LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE This Committee is responsible for setting association policy on motor fuel and convenience store issues.

Chair: Carter Vaillancourt, Daigle Oil

These trustees are responsible for the planning and management of the Self-Insured MEMA group health, life, dental & vision insurance programs.

Chair: Tim Freeman, Daigle Oil Co.

WORKERS' COMPENSATION TRUST These trustees are responsible for the planning and management of the Self-Insured Workers Compensation Trust.

Chair: David Thompson, Waldo-Thompson Brothers

Please contact Megan Diver, mdiver@ maineenergymarketers.com or Hannah Estes, hestes@maineenergymareketers.com if you would like to join a committee.

maineenergymarketers.com

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Specialized Transportation and Maintenance Services since 1958

Call us at 207.850.7975, or find us online at www.HOBOUCHARD.com to see how we can help you!

- Bulk transport of energy products including, but not limited to: - Gasoline, Diesel, Heavy Oil, Jet Fuel, Propane, Ethanol - Maintenance services including, but not limited to: - State & Federal Inspections - Bobtail and trailer tank testing - Yearly preventative maintenance - Suspension, brake, wheel maintenance - Peddle truck mounting and transfering services

What can we do for you?

Evaluate MEMA health insurance plans

Learn more: www.clarkinsurance.com www.allumbaugh.com

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MEMA MAG | Winter 2023

Objectively compare to your current plan options Determine if the benefits of the MEMA plans are the right choice for you & your employees

maineenergymarketers.com

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EMA UPDATE STATUS OF VISA/MASTERCARD SWIPE FEE CLAIMS PROCESS As you have most likely heard, the Settlement Administrator in the Visa/MasterCard swipe fee antitrust litigation has begun mailing claim forms to millions of potential claimants to the $5.4 million settlement fund (the “Fund”). The Fund includes the proceeds of a settlement of the litigation, which claimed that merchants paid excessive fees to accept Visa and MasterCard transaction cards in violation of the antitrust laws.

The Settlement Administrator began mailing claim forms on December 1, 2023 and will continue sending the forms for most of December.

Because of the large number of claim forms being sent, claimants may not receive a form until late December 2023 or January 2024.

The Administrator urges potential claimants to be patient and wait to receive a form which will assign the 12

MEMA MAG | Winter 2023

claimant a Claimant ID and allow for online filing. The claims deadline is May 31, 2024.

Reports suggest that between 12 and 18 million businesses across the United States that accepted Visa and Master Card payments between January 1, 2004 and January 25, 2019 are eligible to claim a share of the Fund. EMA is concerned, however, that thousands of major oil company branded retailers may not be recipients of a claim form, and that they may be declared ineligible because they are deemed “indirect” payers, meaning that their major oil company supplier is recognized as the party that paid the interchange fees that formed the basis for the lawsuit.

Under this theory, branded retailers who reimbursed their suppliers for the fees would not qualify as claimants. As previously reported by

EMA, a Special Master has been appointed by the court to hear appeals from denials of eligibility, such as claim denials based on the alleged status of branded retailers as indirect payers.

If you receive a claim form in the mail, fill it out and return it to the Settlement Administrator in accordance with the instructions on the form using the assigned Claim ID number. If your claim is denied, you will be able to bring it before the Special Master for review. If you do not receive a form, you can access the settlement website below and enter your Tax ID number (TIN) to find out whether the Settlement Administrator considers you eligible. http://www.paymentcardsettlement. com/en/Login. While we have yet to acquire the procedures to be utilized by the Special Master, a determination of ineligibility obtained by

accessing the above-referenced login information should be sufficient as a denial of your claim to warrant an appeal to the Special Master.

If your claim is denied on the ground that you are an “indirect payer,” and you wish to lodge an appeal, you may want to first seek guidance from your attorney, although you are free to file your appeal without attorney assistance. The primary basis for any such appeal would be that you are, in fact, a direct payer of the interchange fees paid on each card transaction.

We have the banking services you need no matter what business you’re in.

EMA will keep you updated on developments in the claims process as they occur and as the information (now a bit murky) become clearer.

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ENERGY PAC FOR MAINE

Whether it be Maine legislators or members of Congress, Government intrusion into every aspect of our personal, business, and work lives is no longer a worry—it’s a fact. This, coupled with out-of-control tax and spending policies and unprecedented efforts to eliminate the liquid fuels industry—i.e., your business—means that we can no longer remain on the sidelines or simply “sit this one out”—that luxury no longer exists. Our industry can deliver the cleanest, most cost-effective, and energy-secure solution for Maine's future, but electrification proponents want to put us all out of business today. To stop them, we will need every tool in our toolkit: advocacy, communications, education, and more. Help MEMA bridge the gap by making a generous contribution now.

PAC funds assist MEMA in threats that aim to legislate liquid heating fuels and propane out of business.

Dues alone are insufficient to meet these enormous challenges. We therefore urge your business to consider a generous contribution to the 2024 advocacy fund.

Your support helps us: • Advance legislative policies in Maine that preserve and protect our energy security and reliability.

• Combat efforts to "electrify everything" without consideration of the costs and consequences.

• Promote weatherization, efficiency, and renewable liquid fuels like bioheat and renewable propane.

• Defend against burdensome regulations on HazMat transportation and keep CDL drivers on the road.

Soon, we will see candidates prepare for the 2024 General Election. It is crucial to our industry that we 14

MEMA MAG | Winter 2023

elect members of the legislature that support you and your business.

We ask you for a 2024 contribution to MEMA’s ENERGY PAC for Maine.

Silver: Gold: Platinum: Petroleum: Other:

$500 $1,000 $2,500 $5,000 $________

How to contribute: • Visit web.maineenergymarketers.com/events/ Maine-Energy-PAC-Donations-765/details to donate online or • Call MEMA at 207-729-5298 to make your contribution by phone or • Mail a check to: ENERGY PAC for Maine 25 Greenwood Road Brunswick, ME 04011 Together, we are making a difference. Thank you for your consideration… your support is needed now more than ever. With your active support over the next year, we will actively engage in a sustaining future for the liquid fuels industry and Maine.

NEW MEMBER

SPOTLIGHT Please join MEMA in welcoming our newest members. Our members are the backbone of our Association. The education services, programs, and events we provide are successful based on the solid support we receive from both associate members and members.

MOLLOY

DC PLUMBING AND HEATING

ENERGY SERVICE CO.

D C Plumbing and Heating is based in Turner, ME.

Molloy Energy Service Co. is based in Lovell, ME.

Call (207) 402-4813 or email dcplumbingandheating2012@gmail.com to learn more.

Call (207) 929-1700 or email molloyenergy@gmail.com to learn more.

Fitch Heating is a family owned Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning company located in Farmington, ME.

Warm Waters is family-owned and operated business with over 20 years of experience in the HVAC industry, based in Gray, ME.

Contact fitchheating@yahoo.com to learn more.

Visit warm-waters.com to learn more.

maineenergymarketers.com

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LEGISLATIVE

UPDATE

During the First Regular Session of the 131st Maine Legislature, MEMA had a lot of our own initiatives; with our industry facing a lot of scrutiny and pricing, we knew we had some work to do. MEMA was represented each day during the Legislative session by Megan Diver and Jon Courtney. Sometimes early in the morning until late hours of the night.

Despite the challenges, MEMA made some historical accomplishments during the First session. While the Energy Choice bill did not go as we had hoped, many other accomplishments were made.

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.

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

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MEMA MAG | Winter 2023

BY MEGAN DIVER, MEMA VICE PRESIDENT

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.

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

This resolve directs the Public Utilities Commission to convene a stakeholder group to discuss the provisions in the 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.

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

This was a BIG win 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. his 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.

The full Legislature will reconvene on January 3, 2024.

The statutory adjournment for the second session, known as the short session, is April 17, 2024. If you would like to host local legislators at your business or you would like to come to the Capitol for a day, please let Megan Diver know, and she will make arrangements.

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, and fourteen were carried over into the Second Legislative session. 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.

Sponsor, Representative Matt Moonen

NEXT SESSION:

Department of Administrative and Financial Services

•

LR 2917, An Act to Prohibit Tobacco Sales Near Schools

Sponsor, Senate President, Troy Jackson

•

LR 2855, An Act to Expand the Availability of Heat Pump Rebates in Certain Areas of the State

DEPARTMENT BILLS:

During the non-legislative session, the Maine Legislature convened several interim committee studies and study commissions to examine certain complex issues, formulate recommendations, and propose legislation for consideration during the Second Regular Session of the 131st Legislature. The Constitution of Maine limits bills in the Second Regular Session to legislation derived from these committee studies, budgetary matters, bills on behalf of the Governor, direct initiatives, and legislation of an emergency nature. Legislative Council (comprised of the ten members of Legislative Leadership) decides what is considered an "emergency."

•

Initially, the Legislative Council rejected over half of the nearly 300 Second Session bill titles that were submitted.

MEMA had flagged 23 of these bill titles. During the appeals process, the Council accepted a total of just over 100 bill titles that will be drafted by the Revisors Office to be heard during the Second Legislative Session. Below is a list of the bill titles that will be new bills this session that are relevant to MEMA. There is no language to these bills at this time.

Office of the Public Advocate

•

LR 2703, An Act to Make Technical Changes to the Maine Tax Laws LR 2807, An Act to Amend the State Tax Laws

Department of Environmental Protection

• •

LR 2662, An Act Regarding Compliance with Environmental Permit Application Requirements LR 2663, An Act to Update Air Quality Alerts

Department of Labor

•

•

LR 2886, An Act to Make Technical Changes to the Laws Governing Renewable Energy Projects LR 2895, An Act to Clarify the Right to Appeal Certain Public Utilities Commission Decisions

The stakeholder group resulting from LD 1479 has been meeting since the end of summer. This was the Resolve that MEMA, PGANE, and the PUC worked on together that would make changes to the current Dig Safe law. The draft of the report has been completed. It will be shared with the Energy, Utilities, and Technology Committee when it is finalized. The draft report includes both a rulemaking directive and statutory changes, which means there will be a bill in front of the Legislature next session. If you would like to see the report, please feel free to email Megan Diver at mdiver@maineenergymarketers.com. maineenergymarketers.com

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ORDER. MADE TO TO LA DE ST .

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MEMA MAG | Winter 2023

CUSTOM PROPANE BODIES SPECIALIZING IN: PrOPanE BODIES CUSTOM BODIES CranE BODIES DEMOUnTaBlE fOrklIfTS DUMP BODIES lIfTgaTES PlaTfOrM BODIES SErvICE/MEChanIC BODIES TrUCk MOUnTED CranES van BODIES

2023

DEALER MEETINGS

The 2023 Dealer Meetings were a great success! On November 13 and 14, members gathered in Bangor and Fort Kent and then again on December 7 in Freeport. Dealer meetings are a great opportunity for members to share their industry concerns and trends, share their ideas, and network to improve the Association and its individual members. Legislators are invited to MEMA’s Dealer meetings to encourage building relationships with MEMA members and their constituents.

Thank you to all who attended!

We would also like to recognize and thank the legislators who took the time to attend.

Senate President Troy Jackson (Aroostook County) Senate Minority Leader Trey Stewart (Aroostook County) Assistant Senate Minority Leader Lisa Keim (Oxford County) House Minority Leader Billy Bob Faulkingham Assistant House Minority Leader, Amy Arata Senator Matt Harrington (York) Senator Stacey Guerin (Penobscot) Senator Joe Baldacci (Penobscot) Representative Dick Bradstreet (Vassalboro) Representative Joe Perry (Bangor) Representative Tim Guerette (Caribou) Representative Austin Theriault (Fort Kent) Bangor City Councilor and Former Mayor Dan Tremble (Bangor)

Pictured L to R: Senator Troy Ja ckson, Senator Trey St ewart, Senator Lisa Keim, Representative Dick Bradstreet , Rep. Billy Bob Faulki ngham, Senato r Matt Harrington, Ch arlie Summers (MEMA), and Megan Diver (M EMA)

Cupka (MTEC), Pictured L to R: Dave , Roger Mitchell Don Nichols (TerraVest) (MTEC)

Pictured L to R: Alan Dorr (Dead River Company), Beve rly White (Globa l), and Griffin Sharp (C ETANE)

maineenergymarketers.com

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r Meeting

aine Deale

Southern M

r e Deale E. rn Main M Northe in Fort Kent, g Meetin

Pictured L to R: Senator Trey Stew art, Mark St. Germain (St. Ge rmain), Casey Cr amton (Dead River Company), Griffin Sharp (C ETANE), and Representative Amy Arata

Bangor Dealer Meeting

Tim Pictured L to R: Beverly White (Global), s Este ah Hann Heutz (Rinaldi Energy), and (MEMA)

20 MEMA MAG | Winter 2023

Pictured L to R: Sarah Nadea u (MEMA) and Colleen Eg e (MEMA)

BY MATT WOTTON FUEL PRODUCTS MARKET MANAGER THE GRANITE GROUP

TECH CORNER

REGULATOR FREEZE-UPS With winter finally in full swing, we are all facing a handful of seasonal challenges, which is often the occasional nuisance frozen regulator. Buckets of hot water are employed, regulators are swapped out, and methanol levels are questioned. Sometimes the problem is fixed, and sometimes the problem persists. Sometimes warmer weather only postpones the problems until old man winter rears up again.

These conditions can happen in older as well as newer LP-Gas containers when heating demands are higher during colder temperatures. Freeze-ups can also occur in pigtails that are kinked or bent. This results in the free flow of the LP-Gas being restricted. Freeze-ups can occur when the moisture, gas flow, and temperature combine to create a substandard condition. Freeze-ups can occur at temperatures above 32º F.

Regulator freeze-ups often have very little to do with the regulator itself. In almost every case, other circumstances outside the regulator are the true causes of the issue. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of these causes and possible solutions.

Any container suspected of having excessive moisture should be treated with the proper amount of methanol.

Regulator freeze-ups happen when there is excessive moisture in LP gas. The freeze-up occurs when moisture in the gas condenses and then freezes on the cold surface of the regulator nozzle. The nozzle becomes cold when highpressure gas expands as it exits the nozzle into the regulator body.

• Has the container been purged properly?

A very important step that must not be overlooked by LPGas marketers is the importance of properly purging new LP-Gas containers. Attention to this vital procedure will promote customer satisfaction and greatly reduce service calls on new installations.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN YOU ENCOUNTER A FROZEN OR FROSTED REGULATOR

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• Has methanol been added to the container properly?

In a new or existing installation, LP gas should be treated properly with methanol to neutralize moisture. Remember, when purging your tank, it is recommended to neutralize the moisture in the LP-Gas cylinder. A rule of thumb for neutralizing moisture in an ASME container calls for the introduction of at least one pint of genuine absolute anhydrous methanol* (99.85% pure) for each 100 gal of water capacity of the container.

*IMPORTANT: AVOID SUBSTITUTES - THEY WILL NOT WORK. THE SECRET OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF METHANOL OVER ALL OTHER ALCOHOLS IS ITS HIGH AFFINITY FOR WATER, A BOILING POINT LOWER THAN ALL OTHER ALCOHOLS, AND, MOST IMPORTANTLY, A BOILING POINT LOWER THAN WATER. ***DO NOT USE METHANOL TO REMOVE ICE FROM THE INSIDE OF A FROZEN REGULATOR. METHANOL COULD CAUSE SEVERE DAMAGE TO THE DIAPHRAGM AND SEAT DISC.***

• How is the regulator placed?

Make sure your regulator is installed higher than the container connection.

This will ensure that any liquid droplets that could be formed in the pigtail will drain back into the container.

• Replace your twin-stage regulator with a two-stage system Two-stage systems can greatly reduce the possibility of freeze-ups and resulting service calls as the expansion of gas from tank pressure to 11” w.c. is divided into two steps, with less chilling effect at each regulator.

• Check for restrictions in your piping system Freeze-ups can also occur when there is a restriction of flow in the inlet piping. Check to make sure your pigtails and hogtails are not kinked or bent. This will restrict the free flow of the LP-Gas. If you are experiencing a large vapor load, use a hogtail or pipe properly with schedule 80 piping per NFPA 58 requirements.

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION PLEASE REFER TO: WWW.REGOPRODUCTS.COM/LPG/ RegO's L-545 Serviceman's Manual RegO's L-500 Catalog WWW.THEGRANITEGROUP.COM/ MY-GRANITE-ACCESS/KNOWLEDGEWAREHOUSE/ PERC/BATTELLE - Recommended proper use of methanol

22 MEMA MAG | Winter 2023

• Using new regulators and new pigtails and hogtails on every new installation will also help reduce the chances of freeze-ups.

Following these steps will help you avoid or troubleshoot any frozen regulators you may encounter. Feel free to reach out to me directly with any questions or concerns. I am always happy to help and work with the manufacturer to develop solutions.

EFFICIENCY MAINE'S

REVERSAL

ON "WHOLE HOME" REBATE PROGRAM

BY CHARLIE SUMMERS, MEMA PRESIDENT

The following letter was originally published as a memorandum on December 4, 2023.

As reported over the last several days, Efficiency Maine has dropped the requirement that Mainers must disconnect, make inoperable, or make inconvenient the use of their existing oil or gas boilers/furnaces to qualify for the “Whole Home” heat pump rebate program. This stunning reversal is a direct result of pressure that MEMA and our coalition partners, PGANE and Summit Natural Gas, put on the Governor, Legislative Leaders, the State Fire Marshall, and the Maine Fuel Board to stop this incredibly shortsighted proposal, which could have put Maine citizens personal safety at risk.

I’ve attached the letter that Efficiency Maine’s Executive Director, Michael Stoddard, sent to inform me that his

his agency is dropping the abovediscussed requirement. Although most of the letter discusses matters that do not pertain to the only concern that we had raised, personal safety, Mr. Stoddard does, near the end of the letter, state:

While we review the effectiveness of this approach through projects that are installed in the coming months, we will not require that any parts be disconnected, locked out, or fastened with a zip tie. This modification is effective immediately and is being communicated to contractors and consumers today.

This change in Efficiency Maine’s position means homeowners won’t have to abandon their existing oil, propane, or natural gas heating systems to get a rebate from Efficiency Maine. Most importantly, though, it puts safety first.

Please know that I, along with our Vice President Megan Diver and your entire MEMA/MTEC Team, will continue to stay on top of this issue. In the meantime, please do not hesitate to contact me at csummers@ maineenergymarketers.com or my cell at 207 252-8121.

maineenergymarketers.com

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24 MEMA MAG | Winter 2023

2024 COURSE SCHEDULE

HVAC PRO SEMESTER CLASS

PROPANE/NATURAL GAS

Member: $12,700; Non-Member: $13,900

APPLIANCE CONNECTION & SERVICE

(includes tool bag valued over $1,500)

Jan 8 - Mar 29 Apr 1 - Jun 28 Jul 8 - Sep 27 Sep 30 - Dec 20

Member: $3,475; Non-Member: $3,775 Jan 15 - Feb 9 Mar 4 - Mar 29 Apr 8 - May 3 May 28 - Jun 21

OIL HEAT OIL HEAT TECHNICIAN TRAINING: Member: $4,575; Non-Member: $4,975 Jul 8 - Aug 9 Aug 26 - Sep 27 Nov 18 - Dec 20

Jan 8 - Feb 9 Feb 26 - Mar 29 Apr 1 - May 3 May 20 - Jun 21

Night Course/Saturdays: Sep 3 - Nov 21

EXAM PREP - MAINE STATE OILBURNER :

Member: $199; Non-Member: $299 (Journeyman & Master)

Mar 9, Jun 15, Oct 12

Jul 15 - Aug 9 Sep 3 - Sep 27 Oct 21 - Nov 15 Nov 25 - Dec 20

Night Course/Saturdays: Mar 12 - May 16

EXAM PREP - APPLIANCE CONNECTION & SERVICE, NFPA #54 Member: $199; Non-Member: $299 Mar 16, Jun 22, Oct 19

TANKSETTER & OUTSIDE PIPING: Member: $1,200; Non-Member: $1,400 Jan 8 - Jan 16 Feb 26 - Mar 5 Apr 1 - Apr 9 May 20 - May 29

Jul 8 - Jul 16 Aug 26 - Sep 4 Oct 15 - Oct 23 Nov 18 - Nov 26

Night Course/Saturdays: Feb 20 - Mar 7

AC / HEAT PUMP EPA 608 CERTIFICATION & REFRIGERANT RECOVERY:

Member: $1,050; Non-Member: $1,200 Feb 12 - Feb 16 May 6 - May 10

Aug 12 - Aug 16 Sep 30 - Oct 4

40 HOUR HEAT PUMP TRAINING:

Member: $1,100; Non-Member: $1,250 Feb 19 - Feb 23 Aug 19 - Aug 23 May 13 - May 17 Oct 7 - Oct 11

CFESA FOODSERVICE

DELIVERY TECHNICIAN Member: $1,050; Non-Member: $1,200 May 13 - May 16 Sep 30 - Oct 3

LARGE EQUIPMENT

Member: $750; Non-Member: $950

May 6 - May 8 Fall Date TBD

PLANT OPERATOR Member: $1,050; Non-Member: $1,200

CFESA FOODSERVICE EQUIPMENT TRAINING

Aug 12 - Aug 15

Feb 12 - Feb 16 May 13 - May 17

OPERATOR QUALIFICATION

Member: $1,200; Non-Member: $2,000 Aug 19 - Aug 23 Oct 7 - Oct 11

Summer Date TBD

25 Greenwood Road, Brunswick ME 04011 | 207-29-5298 | mtecenter.com 25

MEMA MAG | Winter 2023

MEMA'S

COLLEEN EARNS

OILHEAT

CERTIFICATION Over the past few months, MEMA's Administration Assistant, Colleen Ege, completed MTEC's Oilheat Technician Training night course. Since joining the MEMA team in 2021, Ege has worked diligently to enhance her HVAC-R experience. Last year, she received her CDL License, which has led to her coinstructing MEMA's CDL program. Before working at MEMA, she was a service dispatcher and office manager for Fielding's Oil & Propane.

Colleen passed MTEC's certification test on her first try and is scheduled to take the Maine State Oilburner Exam.

Congratulations, Colleen!

WHY WAS IT IMPORTANT TO TAKE THIS CLASS? I took this class to expand my knowledge of the oil side of the industry. After earning my CDL last year, I knew I wanted to continue my education in all aspects of HVAC-R. This class provides essential knowledge and skills needed to work safely and effectively in the oil industry. My goal is to eventually use these skills to help in the MTEC lab.

WHAT WAS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE FOR YOU IN THE COURSE? The biggest challenge was being surrounded by a group of guys who are currently in the field and around this equipment daily. Although it had its perks because I had plenty of support and help, there were definitely times when I was behind or had to ask extra questions.

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF THE COURSE?

My favorite part of the class was anytime I got my unit running after troubleshooting a "no heat" call. Having your boiler fire up after the instructor tells you he came in early to mess with it is very satisfying.

ANY ADVICE FOR FUTURE MTEC STUDENTS? My advice to any MTEC student would be: you get out of the class what you put in. You are around these instructors and technicians who have been in the field for years and have seen it all. Ask questions, take notes, and be present. There is a reason MTEC is the #1 HVAC training program in the northeast; don't waste it. And to any woman considering taking a class, absolutely you should do it! Women can do ANYTHING, and HVAC is not an exception. The biggest challenge we face in the industry is representation. maineenergymarketers.com

26

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25 Greenwood Rd | Brunswick, ME 04011

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