Sen. Lawrence, Brenner and Rep. Zeigler release statement supporting offshore wind port proposal and related good-paying jobs

AUGUSTA — The Mills Administration on Friday announced that it has applied for a $456 million grant from the federal government to help construct the East Coast’s first floating offshore wind port.

State Sens. Mark Lawrence, D-Eliot, and Stacy Brenner, D-Scarborough, and Rep. Paige Zeigler, D-Montville,  who recently submitted a letter in support of the administration’s port grant application, released the following statement, expanding on their previous letter of support:

“Maine has an opportunity to be a national leader in the just and equitable transition to a clean energy future. Not only will the development of an offshore wind port help us achieve our climate goals, but equally as important, it can — and must — provide a pathway to the creation of fulfilling, good-paying jobs for Maine families. 

“Strong labor standards are critical for Maine to have a winning grant application in a highly competitive funding environment. We are committed to working with the governor and the Biden Administration to make sure that Maine can bring this investment home — for our workers and our communities.”

During a 2023 event in Auburn, the president talked about offshore wind, calling the industry an opportunity to create “good-paying union jobs” and fight climate change. So far, his administration has only approved port projects that have included strong labor protections.