124th MAINE LEGISLATURE
		LD 1465		LR 1969(02)
	An Act To Facilitate Testing and Demonstration of Renewable Ocean Energy Technology
	Fiscal Note for Bill as Amended by Committee Amendment "   "
	Committee: Utilities and Energy
	Fiscal Note Required: Yes
Fiscal Note
Minor cost increase - General Fund
Fiscal Detail and Notes
	This bill allows the Department of Conservation to designate one of the offshore wind energy test areas as the Maine Offshore Wind Energy Research Center for use by offshore wind energy demonstration projects conducted by or in cooperation with the University of Maine System in a manner that is consistent with the System's offshore wind energy research and development-related objectives.  The University of Maine System has indicated that it will only proceed with the development of this center if external funding is available.  LD 913, An Act To Authorize Bond Issues for Ratification by the Voters for the November 2009 and June 2010 Elections, includes a request for a bond issue of $7,500,000 for the Maine Marine Wind Energy Demonstration Site Fund for research, development and product innovation associated with developing one or more ocean wind energy demonstration sites.  These funds are contingent upon approval by the voters in the November 2009 general election.
	Additional costs to the University of Maine System, the State Planning Office and the Maine Historic Preservation Commission associated with consulting with the Department of Conservation on the site identification process can be absorbed within existing budgeted resources. The additional costs to the Department of Environmental Protection associated with permitting requirements and other duties can be absorbed within existing budgeted resources.