Maine Clean Energy Guide
Maine is pioneering floating offshore wind technology while building on its substantial onshore wind resources. The state has committed to 100% renewable electricity by 2050 and is positioning itself as a leader in Gulf of Maine wind development.
Source: American Clean Power Association
Last updated: January 30, 2026
Grid Operator: ISO-NE
Maine operates within ISO New England (ISO-NE), though the state has been active in advocating for market reforms to better accommodate its renewable energy resources.
Learn more about ISO-NEFloating Offshore Wind Leadership
Maine is at the forefront of floating offshore wind technology development. The University of Maine's research turbine demonstrated the viability of floating platforms, and the state is now pursuing commercial-scale floating wind development in the Gulf of Maine.
Gulf of Maine Wind
The Gulf of Maine has exceptional wind resources but water depths that require floating rather than fixed-bottom turbines. Maine is working with federal agencies on offshore wind leasing and has established procurement requirements for floating offshore wind. The state aims to be a leader in this next-generation technology.
Onshore Wind Resources
Maine has built substantial onshore wind capacity, with projects concentrated in the western mountains and northern regions. Wind energy contributes significantly to the state's electricity mix, though new development has faced local opposition in some areas.
Major Wind Projects
- Bingham Wind: 186 MW project in Somerset County
- Hancock Wind: 51 MW in Hancock County
- Oakfield Wind: 148 MW in Aroostook County
- Number Nine Wind: 250 MW project in Aroostook County
Solar Development
Maine's solar market accelerated following 2019 policy reforms that enabled community solar and improved economics for distributed generation. The state now has significant utility-scale solar development alongside residential and commercial installations.
Community Solar
Maine's community solar program allows residents and businesses to subscribe to solar projects and receive credits on their utility bills. The program has driven development of numerous community solar facilities across the state.
Key Developers Active in Maine
- New England Aqua Ventus (University of Maine partnership): Floating offshore wind
- Longroad Energy: Wind and solar developer
- NextEra Energy Resources: Major wind operator
- ReVision Energy: Leading regional solar installer
- Nautilus Solar Energy: Community solar developer
Challenges & Outlook
Maine faces challenges including transmission constraints for exporting renewable energy to southern New England, local opposition to some wind projects, and the technical and financial hurdles of commercializing floating offshore wind.
However, the state's strong wind resources, leadership in floating offshore wind technology, and commitment to 100% renewable electricity by 2050 position it well for continued clean energy growth. Success in floating offshore wind could make Maine a global leader in this emerging industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Maine's clean energy goals?
Maine has set a goal of 80% renewable electricity by 2030 and 100% by 2050. The state is particularly focused on floating offshore wind technology and has established nation-leading requirements for offshore wind procurement.
What is unique about Maine's offshore wind approach?
Maine is pioneering floating offshore wind technology, which enables deployment in deeper waters than traditional fixed-bottom turbines. The state's research floating turbine and Gulf of Maine floating wind projects position it as a leader in this emerging technology.
How is solar developing in Maine?
Maine has seen rapid solar growth following policy reforms in 2019 that enabled community solar and improved net metering. The state has several large-scale solar projects and a robust distributed generation program.
What onshore wind capacity does Maine have?
Maine has over 1,000 MW of installed onshore wind capacity, primarily in western and northern regions. Wind energy is a significant contributor to the state's electricity mix, though new development has slowed.