A bill boosting the state's renewable energy production will be debated in the Senate soon. The bill passed the House, calling for utilities to produce 1,200 megawatts each of offshore wind and canadian hydropower.

State Senator Mark Montigny wants to see offshore wind production upped to 2,000 megawatts. Montigny tells WBSM News that would ensure enough energy production to justify the cost of transmitting the power to land. "What's the use of a bill if you don't ensure that longterm planning also protects shortterm folks that are struggling to pay their bills," said Montigny.

Montigny is also seeking an amendment for utilities to pay for construction of turbines and transmission lines out of pocket, instead of passing on the cost to ratepayers.

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