AUGUSTA - The Legislature's Energy, Utilities and Technology Committee held a public hearing Thursday on a proposal that would push for Maine to enter into early talks with Canadas Atlantic provinces regarding a proposed renewable energy project that would span five provinces and potentially cross through Maine.
L.D. 82, sponsored by Rep. Chris Kessler, D-South Portland, directs the Mills Administration to enter into communications with several eastern Canadian provincial governments to discuss a stronger role for Maine in an "Atlantic Loop" energy project being pursued actively by the Canadian government.
"I want to avoid another situation like the CMP Corridor, where a big transmission project moves forward under the radar without input or permission from affected communities," said Kessler. "At the same time, I recognize that teaming up with our Canadian neighbors could bring real benefits to Maine in terms of potential infrastructure upgrades, access to new energy markets for Maine renewables, and meeting our states climate goals. Maine should officially be at the table to see what role we can play in decarbonizing the region. The public and the Legislature should be a part of that process. We have nothing to lose and potentially much to gain by being involved from the very beginning."
Gordon Weil, a former state energy director and Maines first Public Advocate, wrote an OpEd in the Portland Press Herald in September urging Maine to turn the Canadian proposal into an opportunity to strengthen the power grid, add more renewable energy and lower electricity bills. He says passing the resolve would give Governor Janet Mills more leverage in negotiating with her Canadian counterparts.
Early drafts of the Atlantic Loop proposal show possible transmission lines that cross through parts of Aroostook, Penobscot and Washington counties.
The committee will hold a work session on Kesslers measure in the coming weeks.
Kessler is serving his second term in the Maine House and represents District 32, part of South Portland and part of Cape Elizabeth.
Contact:
Katie Walsh [Kessler], 776-2122