PORTLAND PRESS HERALD • April 10, 2022
Record home energy prices this year have laid bare Maine’s ongoing vulnerability and dependence on fossil fuels to stay warm and move around. No one knows exactly how Russia’s war in Ukraine and other factors will affect global energy markets in the months ahead. But an urgent question is looming today in many Maine households shocked by the surge in heating fuel, electricity and gasoline prices: What cost-effective things can I do between now and next winter to reduce my dependence on energy sources subject to price volatility? State energy-efficiency program administrator Efficiency Maine has three high-priority answers: Insulate and air-seal your home, install high-efficiency heat pumps to supplement or replace oil and propane systems, and drive an electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle. But those looking to implement any of the recommended steps could face a long delay.