The Future of Energy Use in Maine with Marty Grohman

Ep 046: According to U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) data from 2017, the average monthly energy bill in Maine is just $87.21. That’s the lowest average energy bill of any state in New England, and one of the lowest in the U.S. For reference, Maine’s closest neighbor, New Hampshire, features a much pricier $114.95 average monthly energy bill. (Source: SmartData) However, that's not the entire picture where electrical energy is only ONE energy source that Mainers use ~ many Mainers use heating oil, gas, wood, pellets, solar, etc. to heat their homes during winter months or supplement electrical use. For many Mainers, heating and electrical use is the considerable budget item. Energy can also be talked about in regards to our transportation systems and our vehicles ~ Energy in Maine is a BIG topic! But for us Mainers today, what's going on in energy use today and how will it impact tomorrow? Especially for retirees, how should they be thinking about creating enough energy flexibility for their homes that they can adapt and react to changing prices on energy over their lives? That's the premise of today's show!

 

Our next guest holds a degree in Chemical Engineering from Rensselaer. He is a former State Representative, where he was a member of the Energy, Utilities and Technology Committee. He co-founded DuraLife Decking, a composite decking manufacturing company that continues to operate and grow in Biddeford. After the company's acquisition, he then served as Director of Sustainability for GAF, North America's largest roofing manufacturer, developing initiatives such as roofing recycling and the company's Zero-Waste-to-Landfill effort, as well as building networks with national organizations such as the US Green Building Council. Currently, our next guest is the Executive Director for E2Tech - the Environmental & Energy Technology Council of Maine. He also hosted "The Grow Maine Show" for over 100 episodes and 6 years and had his show picked up by WGAN, where it airs Sunday Morning at 11a. 

 

He grew up in Carthage, Maine, where his family still runs a small farm keeping Jersey cows. He and his wife Amy and their two children live in Biddeford where Amy works in the Biddeford School Department. 

Please welcome Marty Grohman to the Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!

 

Chapters:

Welcome, Marty! [2:53]

How is energy being utilized throughout the state of Maine? [16:22]

What are some things that Mainers can do to lower their heating and energy costs? [26:54]

What’s coming down the pike in terms of cutting-edge energy technologies? [37:50]

What is Marty doing today to future proof himself from energy costs and moving to more sustainable forms of energy? [44:31]

What is Marty’s personal definition of Retirement Success? [48:36]

Ben and Curtis wrap up the episode. [51:50]