Whether we know it or not, we interact with Maine’s energy policies every time we fill the tank, flip the switch, or turn on the heat. But are those policies fair to all? And as we imagine Maine’s clean energy future via the work of the Legislature and the Maine Climate Council, how can we ensure that our most vulnerable neighbors won’t be left behind?
This question of energy equity has no easy answers. Something as urgent as keeping homes warm during the winter months is complicated not only by economics and geography, but culture and history as well. We can all agree that the benefits of Maine’s renewable energy policy should be accessible to all Maine’s residents, but how to ensure that policy reflects the diverse interests of those in the State and all Mainers can participate in the State’s transition to a clean energy future is less straightforward.
With an eye on today’s challenges and tomorrow’s solutions, this panel of regional practitioners and national experts will discuss the current state of energy policies in Maine with a focus on equity and inclusion at every level of the system – from Climate Council to Community Action.
-Moderator-
Asha Echeverria – Shareholder & Attorney, Bernstein Shur
– Panel to include –
Sara Kelemen – University of Maine’s Mitchell Center for Sustainability Solutions
Dan Drost – Director of Energy & Housing Services, Maine State Housing Authority
Megan Hannan – Executive Director, Maine Community Action Association
Nancy Seidman – Senior Advisor, Regulatory Assistance Project
Jason Barrett – Vice President Residential & Commercial Sales, GAF Energy