Letter to the Editor: Maine could be energy independent

I write to argue for the exciting possibility for Mainers to establish energy independence for the state.

Right now our Legislature is considering the case for establishing Pine Tree Power Co., a consumer-owned, electric distribution utility, proposed by Rep. Seth Berry D-Bowdoinham and others. As an effective companion bill, Rep. Nicole Grohoski D-Ellsworth and others are suggesting the establishment of an energy generation authority for Maine. Combined, these two bills would pave the way for both energy and economic democracy for state citizens with the power to determine our own future, including substantial improvements in the equity of energy availability, and re-invest the profits from our own natural, renewable resources.

It is clear that energy independence requires the development of utility scale, off-shore wind generation, especially in the winter months. No doubt we should listen carefully to any reasonable concerns expressed by the coastal fishing community and diligently pursue and attend to the research program planned by the Governor’s office.

At this point the scientific evidence seems to suggest that the lobster industry, in particular, is likely to lose a considerable proportion of its current catch through the effects of rapid warming and acidification of the Gulf of Maine, possibly long before any large scale wind farms are established in federal waters.

Maybe those who currently see themselves at risk could consider the substantial populations of land-based Mainers displaced by reductions in farming and forestry who are now offered the chance of major growths in jobs and economic resilience through Maine’s lead in off-shore floating wind turbine design, development and manufacture.

Robin Ladkin
Harpswell