Bill would set high standard for coal plants (Maine)

[jpak]

http://pressherald.mainetoday.com/story.php?id=146271&ac=PHnws

WISCASSET — After winning their fight to block construction of a coal gasification plant, opponents are continuing the battle in the Maine Legislature.

About 30 people gathered on the town dock Wednesday morning to support a bill prohibiting construction of coal power plants in Maine that do not capture 90 percent of the greenhouse gases they produce.

Such a measure would effectively kill any hopes developers have for reviving plans to build the Wiscasset plant. They've said they're not giving up on the idea, despite Tuesday's vote.

"We need good jobs and industry in the state, but we can't keep polluting the atmosphere in order to get them," said Rep. Bruce MacDonald, D-Boothbay, who is proposing the bill.

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