Wind is one of the most underused natural resources. Americans should take advantage of this energy by encouraging the development of more wind farms. I believe we have the potential to develop farms right here in Maine. We need to become less dependent on fossil fuel.

If the U.S. captured 10 percent of the wind power in 10 of the windiest states, it would provide enough energy to eliminate the major source of acid rain. I think eliminating acid rain would be great.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the world’s wind could supply the equivalent of 5,800 quadrillion BTUs of energy each year; more than 15 times current world energy demand. One quadrillion BTUs is the equivalent of 172 million barrels of oil. I think that would save a lot of energy for the USA.

Many Americans do not want wind farms near their homes because they think the turbines make too much noise. Everything with moving parts will make noise. Others are opposed to these farms because they don’t want to see wind farms out their windows. For that reason turbines are usually erected in areas away from tourist attractions, cities, and neighborhoods. It’s a good thing that they are not put near tourist attractions and it won’t take away any of the beauty.

I believe that there should be more wind turbines in Maine. Also, we should look for ways to increase the use of wind turbines in Maine.

Meaghan McDonough