Climate Changed
Maine Bans New Wind Farms First, Seeks Supporting Data Later
- Governor LePage’s moratorium freezes permits for wind farms
- His top energy adviser says there’s no ‘hard evidence’ for ban
Photographer: Ron Antonelli/Bloomberg
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When Maine Governor Paul LePage issued a moratorium on new wind farms, he cited a need to protect the state’s tourism industry. It may be a solution in search of a problem.
The Republican’s order, issued Wednesday, slams the brakes on an industry that’s generated thousands of jobs as Maine has become New England’s top wind generator. Yet even LePage’s top energy adviser said it’s unclear whether turbines have had any impact on tourism.