As Election Day nears, climate and economic justice advocates in Maine and across the country are calling on voters in the New England state to approve an historic referendum that would initiate a public takeover of Maine's two for-profit utilities—a move which public power experts say could bring about a sea change in public utility ownership and lower rates for consumers while building resistance to fossil fuel infrastructure.
argued in its endorsement that 'access to clean, reliable energy is undeniably a public health concern,' with power loss linked to higher mortality rates among elderly people, while MOFGA said 'true sustainability will only be possible with a power company that puts the needs of our local communities above the profits of foreign CEOs.' 'Power belongs in the hands of the people, not greedy corporations,' said Sanders in July.