The Sun Journal editorial “Maine Wind Rush” (Nov. 19) and a recent article on CMP’s transmission line indicate that wind energy projects are being promoted.

Wind energy in Maine is both expensive and undependable (the wind does not blow enough).

Maine does not need more electrical energy and, as its manufacturing sector (particularly the paper industry) reduces its electrical usage, Maine will have even more excess energy. Proponents of wind energy projects claim their power will be sold to users outside of Maine. The Wall Street Journal reported on Nov. 21, “Surprise dip in power use delivers jolt to utilities,” and that “The trend isn’t a by-product of the economic downturn and could reflect a permanent shift in consumption that will require sweeping changes in their industry.”

Without an increasing demand for electricity, current consumers are going to pay for additional generating projects such as wind farms and transmission lines. I have been told that the costs of both of these will be significant and will be borne by “out-of-state consumers.” I am deeply skeptical of this claim that someone “out of state” is going to pay for these projects.

The proponents of wind energy and of the transmission line should explain why these projects will not result in higher electrical costs for Maine. The Public Utilities Commission and the Maine Legislature need to ensure that the high costs for wind-generated energy and its transmission will not be borne by Maine consumers.

Rand Stowell, Weld