Last week the Journal Tribune endorsed the four bond issues on Maine’s June  8 ballot. We recommended “Yes” votes on Questions 2-5, proposed bond issues that serve the interests of Maine’s people.

A few more words in support of Question 2 may be appropriate, since the proposals aren’t as familiar as upgrades for roads and sewage treatment plants. The proposed investment in offshore wind energy is based on the realization that Maine occupies a potentially advantageous location ”“ close to an abundant energy resource and to markets where power demands are growing.

This $26.5 million bond proposal seeks $11 million for work on the first phase of Maine’s offshore wind industry. It also seeks $15.5 million for improvements at Maine colleges and universities.

The college improvements funds are apportioned according to enrollment, and York County Community College is down for $350,000 worth of efficiency-oriented improvements, including solar panels for hot water, waterless urinals  and more efficient windows and doors. With enrollment growth straining YCCC’s annual budget, it’s the only way that these money-saving investments can be made, according to the college’s president, Charles Lyons.

The case in favor of  Maine’s offshore wind enterprise begins with a map of the Northeast coast, showing the nation’s most abundant wind energy within easy reach of the nation’s most concentrated market for electricity

Harnessing wind energy could make good use of Maine’s construction and marine industries. The science and technologies of this emerging industry are intensely studied at Maine universities. At UMaine and private firms, wood-based composite materials are seen as the ideal material for wind turbine blades. One measure of the university’s expertise is the $24.5 million in federal funds it has already secured for offshore wind studies ”“ subject only to voter approval of Maine’s $11 million investment.

If voters approve Question 2 on June 8, the money will go toward outfitting an offshore wind laboratory at the university and building a one-third scale floating wind turbine prototype at Monhegan Island.

It will eventually take a consortium of companies, researchers and investors to establish floating wind firms just over the horizon in the Gulf of Maine. According to the 20-year plan, the goal is to establish a generating capacity of 5,000 megawatts, providing thousands of Maine jobs.

Such forecasts are subject to change, but even in the short run, this project will create jobs. And it will continue to establish Maine’s expertise in at least two fields that have a bright future: wind energy technology and advanced composite materials.