A new report says the wind power industry has invested more than $532 million in Maine projects since 2006, with an average of 1,560 jobs created a year.
The report, commissioned by the Wind For Maine advocacy group, also found an additional $745 million is expected to be spent on Maine wind projects over the next four years, according to the Portland Press Herald. The report noted a majority of the jobs created are in construction.
The report, which was conducted by Maine economist Charles Colgan, said 14 utility-scale wind projects that have either been built or are currently under construction have 614 megawatts in total generation capacity.
The newspaper noted that the report is being released as renewable energy subsidies, including those for wind power, are being challenged by some Maine Republicans, who say the subsidies are leading to higher electric rates.
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