Assignment 14-1

With the increasing environmental and economic harm caused by America’s use of fossil fuel (oil, coal, gas), it is more urgent than ever that we break this addiction to fuel and move towards a more eco-conscious and health supplement. Wind power. Wind is one of the safest sources of power for our environment and people. It is renewable, produces no emissions, and according the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, it is good for our economy, since wind energy creates much-needed manufacturing and technical jobs. And unlike coal, oil or gas, wind power is a local Maine product.

The visual impact should also be considered when talking about adding wind power into our state. There are a number of places in Maine that would not be appropriate for wind turbines— Mt. Katahdin, Cadillac Mountain, Mt. Spencer, and Tumbledown are obvious examples.

A recent poll conducted by Portland-based Critical Insights shows that 90% of Maine people support the development of wind power as a source of electricity. Nearly nine in ten Mainers agree that wind power can improve energy security and reduce Maine’s dependence on fossil fuels, and eight in ten agree that wind power will produce jobs and other forms of economic benefits.

“The level of support for wind power is huge,” said NRCM Advocacy Director Pete Didisheim. “Maine people want clean power and clean energy jobs, and they see a big opportunity through wind power to improve energy security and reduce our dependence on fossil fuels.”