I work at the Farmington Energy Center, one of the largest solar sites in New England. As a solar field technician, I keep the energy center operating efficiently, and daily see how this solar energy center is delivering real, measurable benefits to our community. The energy center is doing what it was meant to do: delivering energy, creating good jobs and supporting the local economy.

This project didn’t just bring clean energy to the grid — it brought opportunity to our town. It supported many contractors during construction, and the energy center continues to provide long-term jobs. It’s also sending tax revenue for our kids’ schools, police and fire departments and other community services.

Solar energy centers like Farmington and Sanford power thousands of homes across the state. Farmington alone produces enough electricity to power around 17,000 homes. It’s part of a broader effort to diversify Maine’s energy mix and keep power affordable and reliable. Projects like this are helping move the state toward energy independence — so we don’t have to depend on anyone else.

Working at the solar energy center has shown me that dependable energy can be produced at home. While no single source should carry the entire load, a mix of solar, natural gas, nuclear and wind is key for America’s energy independence. Solar is just one part of this mix, but it’s one that’s working here in Farmington.

I’m proud to be part of something that’s making a difference — not just for our electric grid, but for my family, my community and my state.

Bradley Greenleaf
New Sharon