The Region MAINE The Future of Solar Power And the Role of Condominiums [by Jack Carr, P.E., RS, LEED-AP] There is a growing consensus across Maine that climate change is real and its consequences will have significant impact on our quality of life and regional economic future. While the cause of climate change may be debated, its potential impact on future generations should not be. So the real question should be: What are we going to do about it? If part of the solution to climate change is living more sustainably with a goal of zero carbon power produc- 54 CONDOMEDIA July 2019 tion, condominiums can take a key role in this effort. By the very nature of community living, condominiums reduce our carbon footprint through more efficient use of the land and reduction of construction materials with multi-family building designs. Many urban condos are developed by recycling old buildings, avoiding the wrecking ball and waste generation. Condominiums can take a leadership position to promote more environmentally friendly municipal projects ranging from efficient public transportation to avoidance of the consumption of fossil fuels to waste recycling. PROACTIVE LEGISLATIVE INITIATIVES Some recent events in Maine give hope we have turned the corner and will now address climate change. The prior state administration's opposition to developing sustainable energy sources, including wind and solar