Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Me.) at a Political Rally in Monument Square, Portland Several Years Ago..
Five entities in southern Maine are set to receive federal funding from the US Department of Agricullure (USDA) for clean energy initiatives across Maine. FoX Islands is set to receive $8.7 million to help Maine’s Fox Islands advance their ambitious ocean energy goals.
In addition, more than $5.2 million in Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) funding has been allocated to support local businesses in their transition to clear energy according to a press release issued by Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-First District) yesterday.
The five entities include: Alna Community Solar, LLC, Alna, $5,025,000; Monhegan Brewing Company LLC, Monhegan Island $21,000; Brunswick Town Holdings, LLC, Gray, $51,000; Grovest 101 LLC, Wiscasset, $44,900; and PKS Woodworks LLC, South Berwick, $75,000.
“These investments are a testament to the effectiveness of the REAP program in supporting rural communities’ transition to renewable energy,” said Congresswoman Pingree. “By reducing energy costs, these projects enable local businesses to reinvest in their operations and workforce, fostering economic growth and sustainability in Maine. The success of REAP funding across Maine highlights the program’s substantial impact on supporting rural communities with renewable energy initiatives. These projects not only contribute to our state’s climate globe but also provide direct economic benefits to local businesses and consumers.”
“The Fox Islands have been pioneers in rural clean energy since 2008, when nearly 99% of cooperative members voted to develop wind power for our islands,” said Congresswoman Pingree. “Now. thanks to this federal funding North Haven and ‘Vinalhaven will be able to take the next big step toward energy independence and climate action. By upgrading wind turbines and adding solar power, these rural commuities will be able to meet growing energy demands while significantly reducing both greenhouse gas emissions and costs for island residents. This is exactly the kind of innovative, community-driven project that the Inflation Reduction Act was designed to support and I’m proud to help bring these federal dollars back to Maine.”
“Why doesn’t the “Collins Press Herald” publish this information? Maybe that’s because the strong and independent Congresswoman Chelllie Pingree(D) isn’t the naive and easily manipulated Senator Collins (R), that conservatives prefer,” suggests this blogger. ‘Who is Collins more afraid of? Being primaried by Elon Musk or a challenge by a Maine Democrat next year? What’s your opinion?”