AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) _ Maine’s Republican governor wants to know if what he calls “massive” wind turbines help the rural state’s economy.

Gov. Paul LePage has prohibited state agencies from permitting new wind energy projects in western and coastal Maine, on coastal islands and along certain avian migratory pathways.

He also created a secretive commission that is seeking public comment through Aug. 15 from communities, organizations and residents. The commission is not subject to Maine’s public meetings law.

LePage called wind a “boutique energy source” in 2012.

The governor is exploring the economic impact of potential wind turbines and expedited permitting zones on the vistas and waterways of western Maine. He’s also looking at the coast, coastal islands and the state’s avian migratory pathways.