From the Editor: Pandemic’s impact on energy use a good time to ask questions
Maine’s energy costs are a frequent topic of discussion.
Maine ranks No. 11 among states in per capita energy expenditures, but just No. 27 in energy consumption per capita, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.
With the pricing model thrown out of whack by the pandemic’s impact on transportation and travel, the cost of energy might not be front of mind. But people are out there thinking about it.
In our cover story, Laurie Schreiber outlines how different sectors of the energy industry have been affected by the pandemic. Historically low prices have been good for consumers, but they’ve made trouble for businesses in the energy industry. Her story, “Nervous energy,” starts on Page 12.
The idea of electricity “microgrids” has gotten backing from a range of business leaders and public officials, including U.S. Sen. Angus King. Microgrids are more reliable in power outages or event attacks, and are a shift from centralized energy grids. But they can be costly and sometimes work counter to the idea that bigger is also more efficient. As Renee Cordes reports, there are a number of new ideas and technologies taking root in Maine. See “Plugging in” on Page 20.
On the environmental front, Maine Coast Heritage Trust, fresh off a $125 million capital campaign, is turning some of its attention to buying and preserving marshlands, which are a critical buffer not only in storms but also in defending against rising sea levels. Maureen Milliken talks with MCHT Executive Director Tim Glidden about a recent effort to save the marsh areas along the Cousins River, which separates the towns of Freeport and Yarmouth. The land should be well-known to some, visible from I-295 or even the Muddy Rudder restaurant. See “Rising seas, rising concerns” on Page 18.
For more information about how Maine’s energy usage and costs stack up against other states, see the Focus Intro on Page 11.
A list of Maine’s largest power plants is on Page 26.
Most Recent
Most Recent
0 Comments