Dear Editor:

RePower Wiscasset is a citizen group proposing that an Energy Park be developed on Wiscasset-owned property located off Old Ferry Road. Such a Park would substantially increase Wiscasset’s tax base while utilizing extremely valuable existing electrical infrastructure. The Energy Park would house clean electricity generators and associated businesses that could profit from the availability of clean electricity. This development would generate tax income and new employment opportunities, as well as allowing Wiscasset to play a meaningful role in the energy transition that Maine and the nation are currently pursuing.

RePower’s ideas will be presented on June 3 at the Lincoln County Regional Planning Building, 297 Bath Road, Wiscasset, Maine and is open to the public.

Wiscasset has a long history of energy production. The existing electrical infrastructure is all around us – but it is totally underutilized. This valuable asset can be leveraged to earn tax dollars, create jobs, address climate issues and enhance regional prosperity. Wiscasset purchased the land that RePower proposes be used for an Energy Park in 2003 when Maine Yankee was decommissioned. The 300-acre parcel is zoned for industrial use. Wiscasset’s land sits adjacent to one of Maine’s two 1000-megawatt substations thus making it an exceptionally good candidate for energy redevelopment.

Peter Arnold will present RePower Wiscasset’s vision for an Energy Park at this upcoming meeting. Peter worked as sustainability coordinator for the Chewonki Foundation for many years. In that capacity he oversaw the development of many energy related projects for the Foundation. He also assisted in creating climate change and renewable energy educational programs for students, faculty and the public.

This June 3 meeting is an opportunity to learn how Wiscasset can utilize its existing assets, including land it already owns,millions of dollars’ worth of electrical infrastructure owned by CMP plus take advantage of our entrepreneurial spirit to make money, generate clean electricity and improve our climate.

Peter Arnold 

RePower Wiscasset, and Damariscotta resident