By Kathryn Carley, Producer
Labor leaders in Maine say the approved construction of the world’s largest energy storage system will also create quality union jobs.
The project will convert the former mill site in Lincoln, which closed in 2015, impacting hundreds of workers.
Jason Shedlock, president of the Maine Building and Construction Trades Council, said the project’s labor agreements already in place ensure a well-trained workforce will earn a living wage.
“That money can be put back into the economy,” said Shedlock, “and oh, by the way, we’re also doing our part to reverse climate change with many of these green economy jobs.”
Shedlock said the Biden administration’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is funding the project to strengthen New England’s electric grid. He said the 85-megawatt system could serve up to 85,000 homes.
New England states will get nearly $400 million for regional electric infrastructure to support higher loads of renewable power, including up to 4,800 megawatts of additional offshore wind energy.
The investments aim to help improve grid reliability during peak demand times and increase resilience against extreme weather.
Shedlock said the region’s clean energy transition must also include strong labor standards.
“The words just transition needs to actually mean something,” said Shedlock, “and governmental entities need to take it seriously because we have the workers that have the skills.”
Shedlock said it’s important workers also have a chance to pass on those skills to the next generation through apprenticeship programs.
With Maine getting nearly $3 billion to strengthen infrastructure against the growing threat of climate change, he said the labor opportunities are endless.
References:
Inspiring Climate Action for Maine (the Maine Climate Plan) the State of Maine 2024
ME unions applaud construction of world’s largest battery storage system.
Commonwealth News