In the period of April 2025 to March 2026, the state of electricity consumption in Maine shows a promising inclination towards low-carbon energy. More than half, specifically 61%, of the electricity consumed is sourced from clean sources. Wind and solar energy each contribute almost a fifth, with wind at 17% and solar at 18% (combined from both utility and behind-the-meter solar). Hydropower provides a significant 16%, while biofuels account for 10%, together enhancing the clean energy portfolio. Meanwhile, fossil energy still registers a notable presence, comprising 37% of consumption. Within this, gas makes up the majority with 35%, while oil is close to none at 2%. This clear division between clean and fossil energy usage highlights a vital shift but also indicates room for improvement in minimizing reliance on fossil fuels.

Is Electricity Growing in Maine?

Examining electricity consumption growth in Maine, there is a positive trend, albeit modest. In 2026, the per capita electricity usage reached 11,668 kWh, demonstrating a small yet significant increase from the previous record in 2025 of 11,405 kWh, marking a change of 263 kWh/person. In terms of low-carbon generation, a slight progression is noted, with the latest figures showing 7,156 kWh/person compared to 7,153 kWh/person in 2025, registering a minor change of 3 kWh. Both data points reveal steady, albeit slow, growth as Maine enhances its electricity consumption and low-carbon footprint. This steady growth is an encouraging sign, yet it underscores the necessity for continued effort to escalate both electricity consumption and the share of clean energy.

Suggestions

Maine can strengthen its low-carbon electricity generation by expanding its existing wind and solar capacities, given their significant contributions. Additionally, incorporating nuclear energy could prove advantageous, drawing inspiration from regions with successful nuclear integration. France and Slovakia, for example, generate over 65% of their electricity from nuclear sources, and nearby states like New Hampshire also see over half their electricity from nuclear. Similarly, states such as Iowa and South Dakota can serve as models for further expanding wind energy, contributing more than 55% of their electricity through this source. Seeing how other regions have effectively harnessed these sustainable forms of energy, Maine can strategize accordingly to further diminish fossil fuel reliance and amplify low-carbon electricity generation.

History

Over the last few years, Maine's history in low-carbon electricity indicates both challenges and progress. For hydroelectric power, there have been consistent declines in generation, with reductions by 1 TWh in 2024, 0.2 TWh in 2025, and 0.1 TWh in 2026. Conversely, wind energy experienced growth in the mid-2020s, with an increase of 0.1 TWh in 2024 and a more substantial 0.4 TWh jump in 2025, although it remained steady in 2026. Biofuels saw incremental growth, with a 0.2 TWh boost in 2024 and a modest 0.1 TWh in 2025, maintaining the same level in 2026. This snapshot shows a fluctuating history in clean energy contributions, emphasizing the urgency of bolstering and sustaining low-carbon sources, particularly solar and nuclear, to ensure a more stable and greener future.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

* 12M = Last 12 months (Apr 2025 – Mar 2026) — a rolling 12-month period, not a calendar year.