NEW GLOUCESTER, Maine, Jan. 30, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Maine Natural Gas (MNG) has begun discussions with potential large customers for the development of a natural gas distribution system to serve Augusta, Maine. The first phase of the project would serve customers in the city's east side. The line will tap into an existing interstate pipeline in Windsor and run approximately 10 miles along Route 17 (Eastern Avenue) to Route 9 (Hospital Street). Maine Natural Gas is a subsidiary of Iberdrola USA, which is also the parent company of Central Maine Power.

"This is a great opportunity to provide new energy options for homes and businesses in the Augusta region," said Bob Kump, CEO of Iberdrola USA. "As with our $1.4 billion investment in Central Maine Power's electrical system, the proposed project is further proof of Iberdrola's commitment to improving Maine's energy infrastructure and helping to lower energy costs for Maine consumers."

Depending on discussions with potential customers, MNG will apply for state and local permits this spring, and hopes to begin the first phase of construction to the city's east side this year. MNG's plans include a second phase of construction that would cross the Kennebec and extend along Western Avenue and the Leighton Road to the North Augusta commercial area in 2013. The line will have sufficient capacity for expansion into the surrounding residential areas as well. Following recent expansions to Freeport and Bath, the service to Augusta will be the third expansion of the MNG franchise since 2010.

"We have had a very positive response from public officials and potential customers," said Kump. "There is a lot of enthusiasm for an energy alternative that can help Augusta area businesses and homeowners to save on energy costs while reducing their dependence on oil. We look forward to moving ahead aggressively with this project this year."

About Maine Natural Gas: Maine Natural Gas (MNG), a subsidiary of Iberdrola USA, is a natural gas distribution company. MNG was established in 1998 to provide clean-burning, versatile and affordable natural gas energy to communities in Maine. The company currently serves homes and businesses in Bath, Bowdoin, Brunswick, Freeport, Gorham, Pownal, Topsham, Westbrook and Windham. For more information, visit Maine Natural Gas.com.

About Iberdrola USA: Iberdrola USA, a subsidiary of global energy leader Iberdrola, S.A., is an energy services and delivery company serving about 2.7 million customers throughout upstate New York and New England. For more information about Iberdrola USA, visit www.iberdrolausa.com.

SOURCE Iberdrola USA

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