Letter: Offshore wind can help power Maine’s future

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Offshore wind development is an unparalleled economic investment for Maine. To begin, building an offshore wind port itself would provide thousands of jobs, with thousands more long-term positions as turbine construction and operation continues for decades afterwards. This port would harness skills Maine workers already have, from manufacturing and metalworking to engineering and design. More young Mainers finishing their education, whether studying engineering at the University of Maine or building trades at technical colleges and high school tech programs, would have the opportunity to join Maine’s workforce. An influx of young workers and families into our historic communities such as Searsport would keep our economy healthy, strong and sustainable well into the future.

In Maine, we are proud of our maritime heritage, from merchant marines to shipbuilders to fishermen. In the 21st century, the development of Maine as a national offshore wind hub is a natural continuation of this proud tradition. It combines the culture of hard work and ingenuity begun hundreds of years ago with modern technological advancements from Maine’s own universities and engineers. Maine deserves to reap the economic and environmental benefits of offshore wind development, which can power our clean energy future while paying homage to our past.

Cason Snow

Bangor