ROCKLAND, Maine — A citizens group that opposes the construction of a natural-gas fired power plant in Rockland will be holding a public forum next month to discuss that specific project and environmental issues in general.
Renew Rockland will hold the forum at 6 p.m. Oct. 29 at the First Universalist Church at 345 Broadway.
The only confirmed panelist is Unity College President Stephen Mulkey, according to a news release from Renew Rockland.
Renew Rockland states its mission is to promote sustainable economic growth and a healthy community by educating people about the importance of protecting natural resources, encouraging construction of green infrastructure, renewable technology and energy efficiency, and ending dependence on fossil fuels.
“Though Renew Rockland has concluded that this proposal is not in the best interest of our community, we are inviting speakers from a variety of viewpoints and will attempt to provide insightful and unbiased answers to residents’ questions,” the citizens group states.
Rockland Energy Center Inc. has proposed building a $200 million, 76-megawatt combined cycle cogeneration plant that would generate electricity for the electrical grid and low-cost steam to heat local industries. The city has signed an option with the company for 18 acres of abutting properties where city hall and the public services garage are located.
The company has yet to file a formal plan for the project and the city has not had any further conversations with the company since August when the option was signed,
according to the city manager.
For more information on the forum, contact Amy Files at 200-5151 or email renewrocklandme@gmail.com.