Maine State Wind Commission seeks comments

Governor Seeks Public Input on the Impact of Wind Development on Western and Coastal Maine  

Augusta, Maine - Governor Paul R. LePage is seeking input from communities, organizations and citizens of the State of Maine regarding the economic impact of potential wind turbines and expedited permitting on the scenic vistas and pristine waterways of Western Maine, as well as on the coast and coastal islands and on the state’s significant avian migratory pathways.

“We want to determine if we truly get more economic benefit than we give up when we site a massive wind turbine in Maine,” stated Governor LePage. “Once a turbine is sited, it is there for a long, long time.  The potential impact on our tourism industry and our citizens is considerable, and the potential impact is likely irreversible.  We want to hear from our neighbors and fellow citizens whose lives are most directly affected by the siting of these turbines.”

The Governor has created the Wind Energy Advisory Commission to study the economic impact of potential wind turbines in certain areas; to assess the economic impact of expedited permitting rules and procedures; and to assess and develop recommendations in a written report.  Comments may be submitted via email to Wind.Commission@maine.gov until August 15, 2018.

 

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