Never has it been more important for Maine to make energy policy a priority and to aggressively pursue energy independence and security for our state.
Energy prices are high and extremely volatile. The dangers of rapid climate change are becoming increasingly apparent, and the federal government has failed to articulate a sustainable energy policy for the country. At the same time, the growth in emerging technologies creates enormous opportunity to change course. Maine also enjoys a unique position vis-A? -vis the region that it can, and should, exploit to the benefit of Maine consumers.
As the Legislature tackles a wide range of proposals concerning energy, it should adopt a four-pronged energy policy to reduce price volatility, lower the total cost of energy to consumers and lessen the environmental impact of energy production.
First, we must expand energy efficiency programs to help Maine consumers get more for their money. Technology has improved dramatically in recent years, enabling relatively small investments in energy efficiency to produce big savings for our homes, schools and businesses.
The top reason to focus on energy efficiency is that, unlike most other options, it can produce immediate savings even if energy prices remain high. Indeed, many people discovered that by replacing traditional light bulbs with compact fluorescents they could lower their monthly bills at a time when electricity prices were climbing. Over time, reductions in demand growth will also subdue the upward pressure on prices and eliminate the need for new fossil fuel plants.
Second, by promoting renewable energy produced in Maine, we can lower our dependence on fossil fuels. Recent price volatility has resulted from our heavy reliance on natural gas and oil to heat our homes, fuel our cars and produce our electricity. Any increase in prices spreads quickly through every facet of our lives. In addition to stabilizing and lowering energy prices, homegrown renewable energy will create jobs and reduce carbon emissions that lead to climate change.
It is also important to consider the value of consuming energy produced locally rather than importing it from other states and countries. Locally produced electricity and biofuels, for example, can help to protect us from supply or transmission disruptions beyond our borders. Equally important, local production will keep our energy dollars in Maine to stimulate our economy.
Maine is fortunate to have substantial renewable resources, ranging from wind to tidal power to plentiful working forests that can be used to create biofuels. States with the lowest energy prices tend to be those that have been able to maximize their natural energy resources. It is time for Maine to tap into its renewable resources to secure a sustainable future for the state.
Third, investments in research and development for emerging clean and renewable energy alternatives are needed to help grow the economy, to hasten the development of biofuels and other technologies and to strengthen our universities. A significant bond for this effort should be part of any bond package passed by the Legislature and sent to voters. Maine can and should be a leader in the development of clean, renewable energy technologies.
Finally, Maine must position itself to take advantage of mounting pressures, both regionally and nationally, to add transmission lines to help move electricity from Canada, where there is a surplus, to southern New England, where additional supply is desperately needed to meet a rapidly increasing demand. If Maine is expected to serve as a super highway for electricity, we must ensure that Maine consumers are rewarded in the form of lower electricity prices.
By addressing each of these four areas, Maine can become less dependent on national and international forces beyond our control and take charge of its energy future. At stake is not just the cost of energy in Maine, but also the strength of our economy and the quality and health of our environment.
Sen. Philip Bartlett represents District 6, which includes Gorham, Scarborough and Westbrook. He chairs the Legislature’s Utilities and Energy Committee as well as the Maine Energy Council. He also serves on the Natural Resources Committee.
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