Maine has some of the highest electricity prices in North America. According the U.S. Department of Energy, Maine’s industrial customers pay almost twice as much as the national average. These high prices reduce Maine businesses’ ability to compete and create jobs. This situation should give Maine the motivation to find ways to reduce our electricity costs. But it has not driven our politicians to action. As Governor, I intend to take action.

More than 80% of Maine’s homes use oil for heat. Oil is the most volatile and expensive fuel source, and this expense significantly hurts Mainers. Reducing oil costs would be good for Maine people, and our politicians have done little to solve the problem.

Reducing oil consumption is a worthy goal for multiple reasons:

1. Many know firsthand that the volatility in home heating oil prices has and will continue to impact Mainers' ability to heat their homes.

2. Some are motivated by the belief that climate change and greenhouse gasses are causing irreversible harm.

3. Others note that our use of oil can often directly fund terrorist groups who would do us harm.

4. Still others see that a commercial opportunity exists to sell the world energy solutions. 

No matter what your motivation - volatile heating oil prices, global climate change, national security or commercial opportunity - the conclusion is the same: Maine has an opportunity to create jobs while solving this problem.

I believe that Maine should be a leader in developing materials and building methods to make structures more energy efficient. Not only would this reduce costs for Maine homes and businesses, but Maine companies could also sell products and services to the rest of the world.

With Maine’s access to the world’s best tidal power potential, off-shore and on-shore wind potential, and ample forest products, Maine can and should be a leader in developing more and new sources of energy. As Governor, I will support private and public initiatives to research, develop and sell multiple alternative energy sources.

Maine has a need to create jobs and opportunity. Fortunately, we also have the access to natural resources and proximity to the markets and producers. My administration will make energy a key driver to create jobs and business for Maine’s future, and I will deliver leadership to capitalize on this as yet untapped opportunity.