Governor Participates in Weatherization Efforts

Press Release

Governor John E. Baldacci today joined People's Regional Opportunity Program and Efficiency Maine to weatherize the home of a low-income homeowner. The event highlighted the federal Recovery Act funds dedicated to weatherization and continuing efforts by the State to promote energy efficiency and development of renewable energy.

"We've worked hard in Maine through our public-private partnerships to make progress in weatherizing homes and businesses because we know that this is critical to keeping people safe while decreasing our dependence on fossil fuels," said Governor Baldacci.

The total amount of weatherization for this year is $28 million. Of that amount, $4.2 million is from the Department of Energy Weatherization Assistance Program; $16.2 million is from the Recovery Act Weatherization Assistance Program funding; and $7.6 million is from LIHEAP Weatherization.

The Governor, joined by Maine's Congressional Delegation, has consistently advocated for enhanced LIHEAP funding and the Governor established the Keep ME Warm Program in 2005 to help those in need receive assistance during the heating season.

This year the Legislature passed the Governor's comprehensive energy package, An Act Regarding Maine's Energy Future, which brings together under one roof Maine's energy rebate, efficiency and conservation programs under the Efficiency Maine Trust. Among other provisions, the law established the goal to weatherize all residences and 50 percent of businesses by 2030, and reduce the State's consumption of liquid fossil fuels by at least 30 percent by 2030. Efficiency Maine is developing new programs including financial assistance and a statewide program being launched to support Maine residents and businesses reaching for energy efficiency.

Maine is seen as a leader in the nation both in energy efficiency and pursuit of renewable energy development. The State was recently recognized by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy and by the Federal government for its weatherization efforts and its commitment to energy efficiency. Maine was also recognized earlier this month by the U.S. Department of Energy for its leadership in wind energy research and technology with a major investment to the University of Maine and its consortium to invest in the development of deepwater off-shore wind.

"Maine has earned its reputation as being a leading state in the emerging field of energy efficiency," said the Governor. "Weatherization efforts have enabled us to create jobs while saving residents and businesses money. The federal Recovery Act funds enable us to augment our efforts. Combined, these efforts will improve the health and welfare of Maine citizens, reduce our dependency on costly foreign oil, and put people to work here in Maine."

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