MAINE PUBLIC • May 11, 2021
Maine lawmakers are considering whether to charge some costs for this state's emerging offshore wind sector to electricity ratepayers. The measure would require state regulators to negotiate a long-term contract for electricity produced by an ocean wind farm proposed by Governor Janet Mills. The "research array" would test a technology developed at the University of Maine that relies on floating, concrete platforms suited to deep coastal waters. And it could provide data on how such systems would affect local ecosystems and fisheries. Barry Hobbins, the state's Public Advocate, told the Legislature's utilities committee that Mainers should foster the effort.