Maine Looks to Strong Solar Policy and Renewable Energy Growth
Governor Mills reinstated net metering, and the Maine legislature is now considering two important renewable energy bills.
![Good solar policy is important for the success of clean energy.](https://www.clf.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Detail-SolarPanelWork-Shutterstock-600x375.jpg)
Governor Mills reinstated net metering, and the Maine legislature is now considering two important renewable energy bills.
One of Governor LePage’s first official acts was to erect a sign on the New Hampshire border of the Maine Turnpike proclaiming that Maine is “OPEN FOR BUSINESS.” Unfortunately, LePage has not lived up to that promise. His most recent veto of legislation designed to undo damage to the solar industry in Maine while enhancing… Continue reading Maine’s Legislature Fails to Move State Forward on Solar
When it comes to national leadership, New England has always been ahead of the curve. The first public school, the first newspaper, the first veteran’s hospital, and even the first microwave oven were all pioneered in our backyard. And on environmental progress, our region’s legacy is just as sterling. Since long before the age of… Continue reading Putting Climate Change on the Ballot in 2018
Governor LePage is renewing his assault on clean, renewable energy in Maine. Late last month, he issued an Executive Order that imposes a moratorium on new development of wind power in the state. The order establishes an advisory commission – to be handpicked by LePage – that will meet in secret to review the impacts… Continue reading Governor LePage Abuses His Power in Attempt to Block Clean Energy in Maine
Each year, New England’s six governors and Eastern Canada’s five premiers gather to talk about the biggest issues facing the region. And naturally, climate change and clean energy are always on the table. It’s a critical meeting of regional leaders, one that can act as a springboard for individual action in each state and province.… Continue reading New England Governors and Eastern Canadian Premiers Talk Energy on Prince Edward’s Island
In a stunning walk backwards, the Maine legislature failed again to override Governor LePage’s veto of legislation that would have supported solar progress in Maine. Passed in June, the bipartisan bill would have helped create stability in the state’s solar marketplace by ensuring that solar panel customers are fairly compensated for the power they produce… Continue reading The Fight for Solar in Maine Continues
… What has happened to the Maine Public Utilities Commission? It used to be a respite from politics, relying on a strong staff, expert opinion and transparent analysis to guide Maine’s energy policy. But recent decisions show that our current PUC has little regard for its staff or the opinions of the expert consultants it… Continue reading Maine Voices: PUC, LePage Spurn Consumers While Granting Gas Industry’s Pipe Dream
… Conservation Law Foundation attorney Ben Tettlebaum joins the Beacon podcast this week to discuss the decision by the members of the Maine Public Utilities Commission to ignore the recommendations of their own staff and potentially allow fossil fuel companies to bankroll a new, risky gas pipeline with public funds. “The fossil fuel industry hoodwinked the PUC… Continue reading The Risky Natural Gas Pipeline Mainers Don’t Know They’re On The Hook For