Report: Northern New England Energy Conference
The NNEE Conference kicked off with a Welcome Reception with vendors, leading into the Formal Awards Dinner. The evening was a celebration of excellence, where EMANH proudly recognized Kristine Sullivan of Sprague Energy as Vendor of the Year and Dana Jones from White Mountain Oil & Propane as Member of the Year. MEMA also honored R. J. Morin Inc. for 25 years of membership, Eaton Oil Co., Inc. for 50 years, and P. Gagnon & Sons Inc., Gould Equipment Co., and A.E. Robinson Oil Co. for an impressive 60 years of dedication.
Following dinner, attendees observed the sunset over the Atlantic, accompanied by acoustic duo Quiet Riot Act, to cap the evening.
The following day, June 18, started with a series of educational sessions. Kelly Takaya King, Vice President and co-founder of Pacific Biodiesel from Maui, Hawaii, kicked off the day with a presentation titled “Energy Security, Supply Chain Resiliency, and Greenhouse Gas Reduction: How Hawaii’s Locally Produced Biofuels Are Threading the Needle – Can Maine Do the Same?” King highlighted Pacific Biodiesel’s achievements in creating a sustainable renewable fuel industry, sparking ideas for similar initiatives in Maine.
Following King’s presentation, a roundtable discussion delved into the vital role of biofuels and renewables in meeting Maine’s climate goals. The discussion also emphasized the importance of Energy Choice legislation. Participants included Michael Devine, President of the National Oilheat Research Alliance; Kelly Takaya King; Jacob Posik, Director of Legislative Affairs at the Maine Policy Institute; Lizzy Reinholt, SVP of Sustainability, Corporate Affairs & Marketing at Summit Utilities, Inc.; and Molly Ross, Legislative Assistant to United States Senator Susan M. Collins. The discussion was moderated by Charlie Summers, President & CEO of the Maine Energy Marketers Association.
In a subsequent session, trucking defense attorney Doug Marcello from Saxton & Stump shared his expertise in a presentation titled “The Four Phases of Litigation,” offering valuable insights for attendees.
The day’s final session featured Danny Silverman, Vice President of Sales at Angus Energy. Silverman provided a comprehensive history and practical knowledge on effectively using the summer K factor to optimize deliveries year-round, rounding out a day of educational content and professional development. Afterward, attendees had the chance to explore the charming town of Bar Harbor or enjoy a round of golf at the Kebo Valley Golf Club. The day concluded with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres at the Vendor Blender, followed by a chance to savor the culinary offerings of Bar Harbor’s many restaurants for dinner.
