AUGUSTA (AP) — A coalition that’s pushing for a referendum to mandate increased use of renewable energy in Maine says its initiative would reduce dependence on foreign oil, strengthen the economy and promote energy efficiency.
The Maine Citizens for Clean Energy is holding a news conference today to release the results of a poll regarding its ballot initiative. The referendum would ask voters if they want to require that at least 20 percent of Maine’s electricity come from new renewable energy sources by 2020.
To get the question on the ballot, the coalition must collect more than 57,000 valid signatures by the end of January.
Gov. Paul LePage is among the critics who say the initiative would result in increased energy costs.
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