We continue to wait on a ruling regarding a lawsuit filed by AVANGRID Networks, the parent company of Central Maine Power which questions the constitutionality of the referendum proposed by opponents of the NECEC in two instances. First, the referendum exceeds the legislative power provided to the people under the Constitution. Second, the referendum violates the separation of powers provision of the Maine Constitution. The lawsuit is supported by the Maine State Chamber of Commerce and the Industrial Energy Consumer’s Group (IECG). A decision is expected by the end of the summer.
Meanwhile, many prominent Mainers have been making their voices heard in support of the NECEC.
In his op-ed piece in the Sun Journal, Portland Law Professor Orlando Delogu eloquently explains why the pending referendum on the NECEC is unconstitutional and should not be allowed on the November ballot.
Tony Marple of the Industrial Energy Consumer’s Group authored a piece in the Portland Press Herald which illustrates how the corridor will significantly reduce carbon emissions in both Maine and New England while exposing the out-of-state dirty fossil fuel companies fighting the project.
Kim Lindlof, President and CEO of the Mid Maine Chamber of Commerce, voiced her support in her letter submitted to the Kennebec Journal.
Two Maine environmental leaders, Tom Rumpf and Lloyd Ireland co-wrote an opinion piece in the Sun Journal which explains in detail the environmental benefits of the project.
If you would like to speak out in favor of the project with a letter or op-ed piece, please contact Zach Lingley at zachlingley@gmail.com.
Our weekly online documentary, “Clearing the Air” is now in full production and focuses on the science and facts behind the NECEC. In episode three, fellow engineer Adam Desrosiers and myself visit three Maine lumber mills to witness how the Clean Energy Corridor has impacted their businesses and allowed them to keep employees on the job. In episodes four and five, we look at the increased importance of broadband access. Telemedicine, virtual learning and Zoom meetings are now a daily reality due to the pandemic. Broadband expansion is desperately needed in western Maine and the NECEC creates the infrastructure to make that possible. You can watch every episode of "Clearing the Air" here. We also want to hear from you. If you have any questions or ideas for future episodes, please email us at mailbox@necleanenergyconnect.org. We truly value your feedback and want your opinions!
Finally, our ‘Count Me In’ social media campaign continues to blossom. Let all your friends and other Mainers know why you support the project by taking a selfie or recording a short video and posting it to Facebook, Twitter or Instagram with the hashtag #CountMeIn. Environmentalist and the former Sierra Club Maine chair Tony Donovan has joined the movement and explains why he now supports the Clean Energy Corridor.
All of us working on the New England Clean Energy Connect are grateful for your continued support. If you would like more information about the project, please visit our website at necleanenergyconnect.org.
Take care,
Thorn Dickinson