AUBURN – Maine’s first ethanol terminal is open for business.

Gov. John Baldacci on Thursday joined officials from Safe Handling at the dedication of its ethanol distribution hub. Ethanol, which arrives via rail car, is sold to gasoline wholesalers in Maine who produce a blend for use in cars and trucks.

Safe Handling has been bringing biodiesel into the state. It says growing interest in ethanol led to construction of the new facility in Auburn.

Baldacci said ethanol-blended gasoline has a smaller carbon footprint, reduces dependence of foreign oil and could reduce prices in the long run.