Have you ever wondered how some countries such as Germany can afford to deploy wind and solar energy technologies at such a higher rate than we do in the U
On March 18, 2013, the Maine Technology Institute (MTI) announced a total of $580,111 in
Here’s a revelation: sometimes even BPI-certified energy advisors have complicated, efficiency-challenged houses.
By the same principles that make community wind power feasible in Maine, we can also build co
Efficiency Maine has expanded its appliance rebate program to include rebates for additional appliances from February through June 2013.
On January 30, 2013, the US Energy Department announced the second round of
At the Maine Agricultural Trade Show held in Augusta on January 8-10, 2013, Sue Jones of Community Energy Partners and Windustry gave two presentations to atte
The Proton OnSite Scholarship and Innovation Program is fueling the next generation of scientific innovation by recognizing and awarding high school seniors, college students, and innovators who can find new and creative ways for
On behalf of the Maine Governor's Energy Office, the Environme
On April 17, 2013, officials announced a $3 million railroad renovation that will connect business parks in Poland and Auburn to Auburn's intermodal transportation hub. According to the Sun Journal, the funding for the project comes from a state bond that was issued several years ago. The extension will restore 6,600 feet of the old Rangeley Branch line, build a 400-foot spur and provide direct rail access to approximatly 400 acres of land in Auburn and Poland. Additionally, 1,500 feet of siding will be built allowing trains to more easily pull over and let another pass, decreasing congestion. The restoration and additions to the railroad will create more room for businesses to tie in and connect to rail in Auburn and Poland. The construction is projected to be finished by this coming fall.
Read more at Mainebiz and the Sun Journal.
The Maine Public Utilities Commission (PUC) has approved a plan to increase the systems benefit charge paid on electric bills nearly threefold over three years and invest the revenues in Efficiency Maine Trust's programs. Analysts say that increasing energy efficiency in the state could ultimately drop Maine electricity rates 6% by 2025 and boost Gross State Product by $1.4 billion. The plan must next be approved by the legislature. 
On February 5, 2013, Governor Paul LePage gave his State of the State address to the Maine Legislature. After disparaging Maine's Renewable Portfolio Standard and a recently-approved offshore wind project, the Governor pledged to fast-track permitting for natural gas infrastructure development and re-attempt to remove the 100 MW restrictions on hydropower. There was no mention of energy efficiency.
In the 18th quarterly cap-and-trade auction held in December of 2012, the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (or RGGI) brought $1,224,330 into Maine's coffers. This brought Maine's cumulative revenue count to $34,246,622 since the inception of the auctions. Auction proceeds fund various energy efficiency and weatherization programs in Maine.
