Energy Committee Members Named

January 15, 2009

AUGUSTA– President of the Senate Elizabeth Mitchell and Speaker of the House Hannah Pingree have announced the membership of a joint select committee to formulate energy policies for the state of Maine. The Joint Select Committee on Maine’s Energy Future will draw on legislators with diverse knowledge of Maine’s needs and resources as they relate to fostering energy independence in the state.

“The bipartisan members of this committee have the diverse skills necessary to develop a comprehensive solution to the mountains of energy related challenges facing Maine people. Their goal will be to identify what investments we can make to ensure a more sustainable energy future for the state,” said President Mitchell

“The global collapse in energy commodity prices has given us time to develop better energy policies,” said Speaker Pingree. “We need to recognize that we avoided an energy disaster this winter and that we need to use this time wisely to spur job creation, reduce dependence on foreign oil and promote sustainability. By focusing on this, the committee can help to put our state in a better position to deal with high energy prices when they occur again.”

Sen. Phil Bartlett, Chair (D-Cumberland) Sen. Joe Perry (D-Penobscot) Sen. Deborah Simpson (D-Androscoggin) Sen. Douglas Smith (R-Piscataquis) Sen. Christopher Rector (R-Knox) Rep. John L. Martin, Chair (D- Eagle Lake) Rep. Sharon Anglin Treat (D- Hallowell) Rep. Herbert C. Adams (D- Portland) Rep. Nancy M. Smith (D- Monmouth) Rep. Jane E. Eberle (D- South Portland) Rep. John Hinck (D- Portland) Rep. Michael E. Carey (D- Lewiston) Rep. Kenneth C. Fletcher (R- Winslow) Rep. Stacey Allen Fitts (R- Pittsfield) Rep. Jane Crosby Giles (R- Belfast) Rep. Michael Celli (R- Brewer) Rep. Dianne Tilton (R- Harrington)

The Joint Select Committee on Energy will consider legislation to achieve energy sustainability, reduce consumption through energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions, and promote economic development through renewable energy resources in Maine. In addition, the Committee will report out recommendations regarding the levels and sources of funding necessary for large scale weatherization, energy assistance, development of renewable energy sources, and energy based work-force development programs.

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