PORTLAND PRESS HERALD • May 17, 2021
Our Legislature is considering establishing Pine Tree Power Co., a consumer-owned, electric distribution utility. A companion bill would establish an energy generation authority for Maine. Combined, these 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. It is clear that energy independence requires the development of utility scale, off-shore wind generation. Those who currently see themselves at risk could consider the 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