The University of Maine in Orono has been chosen to receive a research grant of more than $1 million from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to tackle energy transitions in marginalized communities. Among the nationwide recipients of this initiative's $11 million funding, the University of Maine Orono was one of only 11 institutions selected, according to an Aug. 17 news release.
"Addressing climate change and ensuring that historically disadvantaged communities are not overlooked as we transition to a clean energy economy is a major priority for EPA," EPA New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash said in the release. "This research will help EPA and other entities to better understand how transitioning toward clean energy systems may impact communities, and can help pave the way to a just and equitable energy future."
The University of Maine in Orono will receive $1,125,000 for research initiatives that focus on understanding the drivers and environmental consequences of energy transitions in underserved and Tribal communities, the release reported.
The research program undertaken by the University of Maine aims to collaborate closely with Indigenous, rural and low-income communities in Maine. The goal is to gain insights into the contribution of statewide local energy action networks in promoting and advancing the adoption of renewable energy and energy-efficient practices, the release said.
Led by Sharon Klein, associate professor of economics at the University of Maine, the project emphasizes the importance of community-engaged research. The program intends to co-create sustainable energy knowledge and solutions in collaboration with Indigenous Wabanaki Tribes and remote rural communities. Additionally, it aims to leverage the efforts of the Maine Community Resilience Partnership through the pilot Maine Local Energy Action Network, according to the release.
The project also involves Caroline Noblet, UMaine associate professor of economics, who joins Klein in this collaborative research effort. The research's focus lies in examining the advantages, challenges and effectiveness of statewide local energy action networks in fostering the adoption of renewable energy and energy-efficient technologies, the release said.
The researchers emphasize the significance of understanding community engagement across various levels, including national, state and community scales. This holistic approach seeks to unravel the decision-making drivers that influence the adoption of sustainable energy sources and practices, the release reported.
