How would ratepayers who use Central Maine Power feel about a new power line coming from Newcastle to Boothbay – a better one that would prevent blackouts and solve reliability issues during the hot summer afternoons when more people are using electricity? 

How would those same ratepayers feel if they knew the cost of $18 million would be on their shoulders?

Now, what if people knew there was a plan in the works that would cost a lot less, was more environmentally friendly, would benefit local entrepreneurs, and solve those same problems?

The Boothbay Region Smart Grid Reliability Pilot Project is a plan to use a smart electric grid to utilize small-scale resources locally rather than pulling more power from large generating facilities far away.

Local citizens or groups that have signed onto the Smart Grid plan with locally-generated power (solar, hydroelectric, wind, even traditional generators) will be contacted by GridSolar during peak load times and asked to generate energy for the region.

Each resource must be electrically connected with Central Maine Power and be metered so the amount of energy generated can be measured.

There are both active and passive types of energy resources, and GridSolar is looking for both. An “active” resource is a controllable one that can be switched on and off as needed, such as backup generators or a group that agrees to drop its energy usage when called upon.

A passive energy source is not controlled and only operates when conditions are right, such as a solar panel or wind turbine. If the sun isn’t shining, the panel won’t work. If the wind isn’t blowing, the turbine won't turn.

Projects joining the Smart Grid plan will be compensated for their efforts based on kilowatts per month, with bids being accepted until October 26. Priority will be given to projects being completed before June of 2013. GridSolar is interested in all projects, no matter the size. Bids accepted will enter into contracts with GridSolar.

Efficiency Maine, which runs a variety of programs geared toward promoting the more efficient use of electricity, is offering to help fund up to 50 percent of project costs for the Smart Grid plan. However, they are only interested in funding projects that reduce the load during summer afternoon weekdays when electricity usage is usually greatest. They are also offering financing. Call 866-376-2463 to set up as assessment.

Projects that have already been completed and connected to the grid prior to fall of 2012 are not eligible to join. For more information, visit www.GridSolar.com and click on the “Boothbay Pilot” link.

“There are no other programs like this in the entire country,” said Richard Silkman, a founding partner of GridSolar. “This is a first, and that is exciting.”