"Mainers are very concerned about the cost of gas and heating oil and have expressed to me their frustration and fear," said Baldacci. "While much more work needs to be done to address the energy crisis, there are many resources that already exist to help Maine residents and businesses. The tool we have created online puts this valuable information into a form that is convenient for people to access. I am pleased that we can offer this 'one-stop shop' of guidance to Mainers. This is one of many areas that I have tasked my administration with developing, knowing that it may be a long time before federal efforts to address the energy crisis yield real relief."
Information on the site includes the most recent initiatives under way in Maine, including the Free Fare Friday transit program running in various communities throughout the state in July. Other resources are easily accessible through the site's organization under the categories of homeowners, businesses, transportation, and "Get Help." A quick search tool enables people to pinpoint specific information.
Baldacci stressed that while Mainers are enjoying the warm summer months, the time is right to think ahead to the heating season. In particular, homeowners and businesses can take a number of steps to prepare buildings for winter and thereby reduce the amount of energy needed to heat facilities. Additionally, as gas prices continue to climb, there are ways that Mainers can reduce their driving or otherwise conserve fuel, such as car or van pooling. Much more information, including low interest loans and alternative energy incentives, can be found now through the single Maine energy assistance Web site.
Baldacci's Pre-Emergency Energy Task Force is currently developing options for the governor to consider that will enhance current efforts to address the energy crisis. On Wednesday, Baldacci is convening a New England Governors' Energy Summit in Boston to discuss regional action and approaches to common energy issues. He is also participating in the National Governors Association annual meeting this weekend, a key issue of which will be the national energy crisis.
Long-term initiatives to reduce Maine's dependence on oil are under way. A key goal in this strategy is to make Maine a national leader in the production of clean, renewable energy. Last month Maine was one of 12 states awarded a $50,000 Clean Energy States grant from the National Governors Association. Grant funds will be dedicated to assist Maine in efforts to increase energy efficiency.
