Last June, I contacted my state representative, Rep. Bruce Bickford, about supporting a bill for solar energy in Maine. I was impressed that he was receptive to learning the facts about the issue, rather than simply following a partisan agenda. My neighbors and I were pleased to see he voted in favor of the last two solar bills despite Gov. Paul LePage’s opposition. Bickford deserves the public’s thanks on that issue.

The latest solar bill, LD 1444, would prohibit Central Maine Power from unfairly charging customers a fee for the solar energy customers generate for their own use and increase the number of people who could buy into a community solar project to 50.

Although this commonsense bill passed easily in both the Maine House and Senate, Gov. LePage is expected to veto it.

I hope people can count upon Rep. Bickford’s continued support for a critical override vote, to pass LD 1444. Maine’s solar future may rely on it.

Toby Haber-Giasson, Auburn