FARMINGTON – The Franklin Chamber of Commerce Business Breakfast Series program for September will be held on Wednesday, Sept. 30 at 7 a.m. at the University of Maine at Farmington’s North Dining Hall, 111 South Street, Farmington. Brought to you by Bangor Savings Bank, this month’s keynote speaker, Les B. Otten, is one of the principals and directors of the Maine Energy Systems (MESys). MESys was the outcome of a series of informal seminars organized by Les Otten in 2007.
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Otten will address “Wood to Energy – Keeping our energy dollars in Maine.” MESys primary mission is to support a transition to the use of renewable energy for homes and businesses. By offering less expensive carbon neutral sources of heat and energy, MESys will not only lower costs for users but will also sustain and create jobs in the region and will significantly reduce the region’s carbon footprint.
In January 2009, Maine Energy Systems was recognized by Senator Olympia Snowe as a small business that is using technology and innovative thinking to help solve our nation’s energy crisis and keep Mainers warm during the lengthy winter. Senator Snowe commented that Maine Energy Systems is at the vanguard of the “green” product revolution, creating a product that is beneficial to the environment, saves consumers money, and produces profits and jobs.
In 2008, due to his involvement with Maine Energy Systems, Les was asked by Governor John E. Baldacci to chair the Governor’s Wood-to-Energy Task Force which was charged with finding ways to reduce the state’s reliance on foreign oil and stimulate Maine’s economy by developing renewable sources of energy made in Maine, by Maine businesses, for Maine people. The initiative sought to capitalize on opportunities to convert public buildings to wood biomass heat; encourage homeowners to switch from oil heat to heat from renewable energy sources; and, promote Maine-grown alternative energy industries.
Aside from his service to the state on the Governor’s Wood-to-Energy Task, Les has volunteered his time and resources to charitable causes in many ways over the years.
The Business Breakfast Series is open to the public. Space is limited, so, please register before September 24 by calling the Franklin Chamber of Commerce office at 778-4215, stop by the Welcome Center at 248 Wilton Road, or via email at: info@franklincountymaine.org. The cost for pre-registered members is $10, guest $12. The cost at the door for either members or guest is $15. Please make checks payable to FCCOC, and mail to 248 Wilton Road, Farmington, ME 04938.
