Solar farm project stirs up controversy in small Maine town [Video]

As a commercial solar farm is under construction in Brooks, the town is working to restrict future projects.

BROOKS, Maine — As more renewable energy developments are emerging across Maine, one project is stirring up controversy in the Waldo County town of Brooks.

As a commercial solar energy farm is under construction in Brooks, the town is working to restrict future projects.

The project is being developed by Encore Renewable Energy, a Vermont-based commercial solar company. Leaders with Encore believe it will benefit the community.

“That energy that’s generated there in Brooks is largely going to be consumed within the town of Brooks,” Chad Farrell, Encore founder and co-CEO, said. “It’s an energy security opportunity.”

But not all in town share this enthusiasm.

“It’s a huge concern,” Brooks resident John Magnussen said.

Magnussen has lived in his home in Brooks for 23 years. Now, the new solar farm is right across the street from his house.

Magnussen said he didn’t know about the project until the …