NRCM Supports Part, Not All, of Kibby Wind Power Expansion

CARRABASSETT VALLEY, Maine — At a public hearing on wind power held today by the Land Use Regulation Commission, the Appalachian Mountain Club, Maine Audubon, and the Natural Resources Council of Maine announced partial support for a proposed expansion of the Kibby Wind Power Project by TransCanada. The organizations said they will support the northernmost eight turbines in the proposed 45 megawatt (MW) expansion on Sisk Mountain, which lies adjacent to Kibby Mountain, where TransCanada is currently completing a 132 MW wind power project. They oppose the location of the southernmost seven turbines, which would be located in the middle of a large block of rare subalpine forest that provides habitat for species of concern like the Bicknell’s thrush. The southern part of the expansion would also negatively impact the nearby Chain of Ponds, a group of ponds rated by the state as having “outstanding” scenic significance, as well as public land and recreational use along the ponds. 

MPBN news story.

Comments

[NRCM]

Thanks, Jan. We work very hard to find a balance the vital need for clean, renewable energy and protection of Maine's wilderness. We review each wind project carefully and objectively so that Maine’s spectacular wild places are protected without sacrificing opportunities for wind projects that, by producing clean, renewable energy, will in turn help protect these same wild places. Again, thank you very much for sharing your concerns.

[Jan]

Be strong, NRCM, and don't only think of energy. Wilderness is important, too - we have to find a balance. Thank you.

[Steve]

Glad to see NRCM is supporting only PART of this extension - and standing up for conservation of one of Maine's most treasured places. This is the NRCM I know and have loved for decades.