(#17) Interview Questions For Jennifer Puser, who works in the state government.

- Why or why not do you support Alternative energy development?

The reasons that the state government support renewable energy are to reduce greenhouse gases emissions, to help the economy with jobs, and to reduce the cost of energy around the board.

- What do you think the future holds for Alternative energy in Maine?

I think it is very bright. There is a lot of stuff going on right now. We are in a transition from old fossil fuels to alternative energy. Last week a Portland based company just tested the first tidal based power source. We are part of the New England energy grid. Right now in Maine there is a transition to offshore wind power. Maine is pushing the envelope on renewable energy.

- Do you see global warming as a problem?

Global warming is definitely a problem. The state of Maine has agreed with the rest of new England to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Maine was the first state in the country to implement a climate bill.

-Which type of Alternative Energy is the most realistic and efficient for Maine?

Its going to be be some of all of this. In the past in Maine, for example, 80 percent of homes and business used heating oil. I think we are going to see a little bit of all the sources I mentioned. (wind, solar, geothermal, hydro.)

- Economically, what is the potential for Alternative Energy in Maine?

I think economically wind power right now is competitive. Coal,oil ad fossil fuels all have subsidies. Solar energy is not as competitive on a large scale. Geothermal is a good application for a larger building or commercial facility. Solar is expensive up front, but pays for itself. When oil prices rise, renewable energy becomes more viable.

- What role should the Government play in encouraging Alternative Energy development?

We think that the federal gov. should play a leadership role, as well as the state government. A lot of states and municipalities were taking a leading role rather than the federal government before the Obama administration.