U.S. Rep. Chellie Pingree had written to FairPoint CEO Paul Sunu, criticizing the company for the strike, which has lasted more than two months.

The study says more infrastructure is needed to reduce energy costs, but critics say it’s too limited because it focuses only on Massachusetts.

The employees contend that the paper company doesn’t want a competitor to operate the plant.

Plant workers say there is no optimism for a reopening after the Verso Paper mill is sold to a scrap-metal recycler.