PORTLAND – State regulators have ordered Central Maine Power to send refunds to 233 customers who were supposed to receive them under a program that helps low-income Mainers pay the cost of power.

The $22,000 that CMP was ordered to pay could come out to an average of nearly $100 for each of the customers, according to the Maine Public Utilities Commission.

The Electric Lifeline program limits the power bills of some lower-income customers to an amount that is based on projections of their earnings and electric bills. Bills are projected by examining a customer’s power use for the previous year.

CMP spokesman Mark Ishkanian said the company is no longer using the formula by which the 233 customers’ rates were calculated.

He said CMP cooperated with the state in reviewing its files and making the calculations necessary for the refunds.

“We’re very supportive of the program that’s helping our most needy customers,” he said.

The state ordered CMP’s investigation after a customer complaint.

“It is gratifying to be able to return funds, especially to those who need it the most,” said Derek Davidson, director of the PUC Consumer Assistance Division.