Over the past year, stretching from June 2024 to May 2025, Maine has increasingly focused on clean electricity, with more than two-thirds of its electricity consumption being sourced from low-carbon energy types. Specifically, hydropower contributes a notable 26%, while wind energy, a significant source, provides approximately 20%. On the other hand, biofuels and solar play smaller roles, contributing around 11% and 9% respectively to Maine's electricity mix. Fossil fuels continue to supply about one-third of the state's electricity, with natural gas being the predominant type within this category at nearly 31%. The reliance on fossil fuels remains a concern due to its environmental impacts, but the substantial share of clean energy demonstrates the state's commitment to greener endeavors.
Is Electricity Growing in Maine?
In terms of electricity consumption, Maine is witnessing a significant downward shift compared to its historical peak. In 2025, the electricity consumption stands at 9797 kWh per person, a notable decrease from the 2004 peak of 14538 kWh per person, representing almost a 5000 kWh reduction per individual. While this decrease is stark, the low-carbon electricity generation per person in 2025 of 6502 kWh, just slightly below last year's 6548 kWh, reflects relatively stable clean energy production levels. Despite this stability in low-carbon electricity figures, the reduction in overall consumption signals a worrying trend when considering the future energy needs driven by technological advancements and electrification.
Suggestions
To bolster its low-carbon electricity generation, Maine should prioritize expanding wind energy, given its proven track record in the state. Additionally, taking inspiration from successful regions could offer valuable insights. States like Iowa and South Dakota have successfully harnessed wind power to supply 60% or more of their electricity. Meanwhile, considering nuclear energy could significantly diversify Maine's clean energy mix, following in the footsteps of neighboring states like New Hampshire, where nuclear provides 55% of its electricity. Solar energy, despite its current lower contribution, has vast potential, as seen in countries like Lebanon, where it contributes up to 31%. Fostering strong policies and investments in these areas could significantly enhance Maine's clean electricity landscape.
History
Historically, Maine's journey towards low-carbon electricity has been marked by various fluctuations over the decades. In the mid-2000s, we saw notable increases in hydro and biofuel electricity generation. However, the following years experienced some declines mainly in hydropower, with notable decreases around 2007, 2010, and 2016. Despite fluctuations in biofuels and minor shifts in wind, there was a tangible growth in wind power in 2016 and 2017. Likewise, solar energy made modest inroads recently. As of 2024, solar saw a boost accompanied by additional wind energy growth. It is essential that the state continues to build on these trends, focusing on the steady increase of wind and solar capabilities while keeping an eye on new clean energy technologies to ensure a decrease in dependency on fossil fuels and to meet future electricity demands efficiently.