Gov. John E. Baldacci, D-Maine, delivered the opening remarks at a day-long conference focused on wind energy development in the state. The Maine Wind Energy Conference, From Grassroots to Blade Tips: Growing Wind Energy in Maine, brought together representatives from municipal and state government, business, economic development and other sectors.
Baldacci said Maine is in a unique position to capitalize on its strengths in order to bring about greater energy independence, economic development and job creation by building wind and other renewable sources of energy. Currently, the state represents 95% of the wind power in New England and has developed a regulatory approach that is strong, stable and predictable, while balancing important environmental considerations, according to the governor.
‘Growing partnerships across the public and private sectors remains a key component to realizing these goals,’ Baldacci said. ‘We want to move aggressively, while maintaining our commitment to community involvement and being sensitive to environmental impacts with a thoughtful siting process.’
In addition, Baldacci said much of the ultimate success of wind energy development hinges on partnerships with and among Maine communities. He gave two recent examples of communities that have embraced opportunities to bring wind projects to their areas and hopes to see more community-initiated projects.
The town of Oakfield overwhelmingly approved the development of a 34-turbine wind farm last month. The votes came during a special town meeting in which voters also rejected a moratorium on wind projects.
In addition, the Fox Island Wind project that will serve Vinalhaven and New Haven is near completion, with power generation expected to begin next month.
Last month, Baldacci led a renewable energy trade mission to Spain and Germany, and visited a deepwater offshore wind platform in Norway. According to the governor, the trip has the potential to open up incredible opportunities for Maine businesses to attract significant investment in the state.
SOURCE: Office of Gov. John Baldacci
