Government Energy Policy, Business and Technology

Shielded Maine wind energy commission receives pushback

Portland Press Herald: AUGUSTA — Gov. Paul LePage’s imposition of a moratorium on new wind power permits last week was only half of the reason renewable energy advocates and other groups were so upset.

LePage also created a Wind Energy Advisory Commission that will meet behind closed doors – out of view of the public or the press – as it examines the industry’s impact on tourism and potential regulatory changes when siting the massive wind turbines.

In shielding the commission from public scrutiny, LePage tapped a clause – or, to some, a gaping loophole – in Maine’s public meetings law that’s been on the books for more than 20 years but was rarely utilized until he took office.

“It is allowed by law and standard practice so that commission members can feel empowered to speak freely,” LePage spokeswoman Julie Rabinowitz wrote when asked the reason for exempting the commission from public meetings requirements under the Maine Freedom of Access Act. “We want the final report to be able to stand on its own.”

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