GARDINER – The Maine Technology Institute announced more than $38,000 was recently transferred into the state’s Renewable Resource Fund, bringing the total to nearly $70,000.

“This is great news,” said MTI President Dr. Janet Yancey-Wrona. “Maine citizens are taking an active role in their state’s economic, environmental and technological future.”

The fund allows Mainers to contribute directly to the development of new renewable sources of energy by filling out an insert in their electric bill.

As little as one tax deductible dollar a month provides state universities, communities and private companies funding to research and develop new ways of producing electricity from renewable sources.

A contribution insert can be found in this month’s electric bill.

In August 2003, MTI began administering the funds collected by the Maine Public Utilities Commission.

The funds are distributed as grants or grant match for projects that qualify.

So far, MTI has awarded $40,000 of the fund as match for a Cluster Enhancement Award, allocated to the Chewonki Foundation in collaboration with the Hydrogen Center for their Hydrogen Fuel Cell Project.

To contribute to the Renewable Resource Fund or to find out how your project might qualify, visit www.mainetechnology.org www.mainetechnology.org or call MTI at 207-582-4790.