Financial pressure on Central Maine Power could force it to delay construction projects aimed at improving reliable electric service and upgrading aging infrastructure, according to the company.

The utility’s warnings come ahead of a Maine Public Utilities Commission decision on whether to grant CMP’s request to temporarily increase customer prices to raise about $70 million dollars.

Some opposing groups, including the Natural Resources Council of Maine and Acadia Center have criticized CMP’s hiring and investment pause and urged the company to meet its obligations to customers.

Noah Berman, a utility advocate with Acadia Center in an interview said he doubted the company’s claim of financial straits.

“I do not believe CMP is accurately portraying its capability in ensuring that Mainers have safe and reliable and adequate service which is its obligation under the law,” Berman said.

The PUC will deliberate whether to permit temporary rates at its meeting Tuesday.

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