AUGUSTA, Maine - Government officials and researchers who seek to build ocean-based wind and wave turbines in the Gulf of Maine unveiled three sites Tuesday where prototypes will be constructed.

Tuesday's announcement puts Maine one step closer to becoming the first state in the nation to create offshore wind test and demonstration sites, which according to University of Maine professor Habib Dagher will position the state at the forefront of a widespread effort to tap renewable energy sources.

"Our vision is to put Maine in front of the country and the world in the development of offshore wind power," said Dagher, who as director of the university's Advanced Structures and Composites Center plans to conduct research with three wind turbines at one of the locations announced Tuesday.

The three sites, selected by a consortium of government and private agencies, include one off Boon Island, near the southern Maine town of York;... [continue via Web link]