Offshore wind development presents an exciting opportunity for both Maine’s economy and our environment. Maine’s federal grant application to build an offshore wind port could result in the largest investment in the state’s history and will take advantage of the deep water and high wind speeds that placed Maine at the forefront of the maritime world centuries ago. Students and engineers at University of Maine have been hard at work for two decades, developing first-of-its-kind technology to make floating turbines the most logical choice for Maine’s energy future. It’s time to make good on their investment.

Offshore wind will create a steady stream of renewable energy for Maine, delivering extra power at night to complement solar power. The Gulf of Maine holds enormous potential for wind energy — the 3 gigawatts of energy Maine has committed to procuring should cover half of the state’s energy usage by 2040. Local renewable energy will lower our dependence on expensive and polluting fossil fuels and make switching to electric cars and electric home heating cleaner and more affordable over time.

Maine has a history of leading the nation in environmental protection and sustainable development. This is a chance to follow that tradition. If we invest in offshore wind now, we will be able to power Maine with renewable energy, and establish clean energy jobs and a steady stream of income to the state. Offshore wind is quickly becoming a major industry, and Maine deserves a spot at the forefront of its development.

Linda Woods

Waterville