AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) _ Independent candidate for governor Eliot Cutler says Maine must encourage renewable energy production and support projects that lower energy costs for homeowners and businesses.
Cutler, who's seeking to unseat Republican Gov. Paul LePage, said Tuesday that if he's elected in November he would rebuild the state's Department of Environmental Protection and create the Maine Energy Finance Authority, which would offer capital for energy projects that aim to reduce energy costs.
Last month, Democratic candidate Mike Michaud highlighted his energy policy ideas, calling for Maine to cut its dependence on heating oil in half by 2030 and urging the development of solar and energy power.
LePage's plan has emphasized the need for the state to reduce Mainer's utility bills and has criticized wind and solar energy because of the high costs.