The Governor's Energy Office (GEO) is updating the state's Comprehensive Energy Plan, and is seeking comments from the public on how Maine should continue to move forward to reduce energy costs, and plan for the next decade.
"The state's energy outlook has changed dramatically since 2008, which is when the last Comprehensive Energy Plan was developed," stated Energy Office Director Patrick Woodcock. "New technology has reshaped energy markets, creating new opportunities for Maine. At the same time, this past winter revealed that our state's energy challenges are severe. We must work to expand the use of cost-effective and clean energy to power our state's businesses, keep more money in our residents' pockets, and make the strategic energy investments that will make us more economically competitive and a more affordable place to live."
The GEO is using several documents as the foundation for the new plan: The 2013 oil reduction assessment report (PDF) and policy recommendations (PDF), and the 2008 Comprehensive plan (PDF). In addition, the GEO has compiled some "Energy Fast Facts (PDF)" that will also become part of the plan.
The Energy Office is seeking public comments through Friday, August 15, 2014. Please send electronic comments to Lisa Smith, Senior Planner with the GEO: lisa.j.smith@maine.gov. Written comments can also be mailed to: Governor's Energy Office, 62 State House Station, Augusta, Maine, 04333-0062; Attn: Comprehensive Plan Update. The Energy Office also welcomes meeting with the public on development of the plan.