Bring Back the Light to Goat Island
A STATEMENT ON THE GOAT ISLAND POWER OUTAGE:
As many of you may already know, we recently lost electricity on Goat Island because the circa 1939 submarine power cable installed from the mainland has failed. We thank you for your concern and for your thoughtful suggestions. We feel it’s most important to note, the light in the lighthouse and the horn remain functional. In 2008 we added a solar array and battery bank to power them. They are not impacted by the issue we face today. Everything else is.
Because we knew something like this was inevitable, years ago we began exploring and studying energy options on Goat Island. And, in keeping with our Trust in Education mission, in 2018 as we learned about energy sources, we asked why shouldn’t others? That’s when we partnered with the Gulf of Maine Institute, the University of New England and Kennebunk High School to create a program that among many other things, studied and explored clean energy solutions on Goat Island. We have learned A LOT through the years and are grateful to be in a better position because of this. Video here: https://youtu.be/VLIUvXb8QxY
As you’ll see in the video link, together we have researched a new submarine cable, wind power, tidal power and solar power. Considering our energy needs on the island, the two options that seem to meet our needs best are solar power and/or a new submarine cable. When the students first met with the Maine Historical Commission in Augusta to present their findings about solar power the idea was met with resistance. Recently we’ve been told the commission is open to discussing this with us again. We’re pleased by this. Somewhat related, we thought we’d also share that since adding solar power to our headquarters on Gravelly Brook Road in June of 2019, the Trust has generated 51.57 MWh which almost completely offsets our energy consumption across all of our properties/meters. We’re trying our best to do our part.
Our teams and volunteers have pulled together like they always do and we’re in the process of gathering estimates and determining the next steps. We anticipate the cost will be in the hundreds of thousands of dollars. In the meantime, we appreciate your concern and we’re grateful for your support. Regardless of how we electrify the island we’ll need help. We’d be grateful if you’d consider donating to help us. Simply note that your donation is for Goat Island in the “Additional Information” section of the form and we’ll be sure that’s where it goes. Stay tuned to learn about more ways you can donate and share our fundraising campaign.
Thank you,
The KCT Staff & Board