AUGUSTA, Maine – The Maine Public Utilities Commission (MPUC, Commission) deadline for
filing proposals in response to the Northern Maine Renewable Energy Development Program
RFP is today. The RFP seeks proposals for bids up to 1200 MW in new power generation from
renewable energy resources, and for transmission connecting the power being generated in
Northern Maine to the regional grid. The bids can be for generation, transmission, or both.
Supporters of the program say that the potential for wind energy in Northern Maine could bring
both affordability and reliability to ratepayers, while creating economic benefits for Maine.
Supporters of the program say that the potential for wind energy in Northern Maine could bring
both affordability and reliability to ratepayers, while creating economic benefits for Maine.
“We welcome the RFP and the economic and employment opportunities it creates for Aroostook
County,” said Kiersten S. Purington, President & CEO of the Aroostook Partnership. “Maine-made
large-scale wind development supports local jobs and community investments while allowing
Northern Maine to serve as a key player in this renewable energy project.”
Aroostook County is home to wind projects in Mars Hill and Oakfield. Previously constructed
projects have been praised for bringing dollars to Northern Maine, as well as economic benefits
to the communities where they are located.
“Aroostook County is no stranger to successful wind development,” said Johanna Johnson,
Executive Director of the Southern Aroostook Development Corporation. “Projects in Mars Hill
and Oakfield, and the neighboring community of Danforth contributed to local jobs and
economic activity. Like much of Maine, Aroostook County faces ongoing energy challenges, and
any proposed solutions should be evaluated carefully within the context of regional
infrastructure, community priorities, and long-term impacts.”
Maine’s clean energy goals call for 100% clean energy by 2040, with 90% of that coming from
renewable sources. Experts say that Aroostook County in particular has great potential for wind
energy, and there is a unique opportunity to harness that wind to bring lower electricity costs to
Maine ratepayers.
“We will need new sources of affordable power to meet rising electricity demand in our region,”
said Bill Harwood, a former Maine Public Advocate. “Northern Maine is likely one of the better
options to access a large amount of electricity at a stable price, so it is good to see the
Commission run a competitive process to explore it.”
Wind projects support construction and long-term, local operation jobs. Past projects
throughout the state have been a powerful driver of new employment opportunities, from
engineers and technicians to local suppliers and support staff.
“Projects of this scale create skilled construction jobs and support local subcontractors,” said
Glenn Adams, Business Development Director at Sargent Corporation in Orono. “Sargent
Corporation has a strong history working on wind development and renewable energy projects.
Our company stands ready to put our Maine-based experience to work for Northern Maine
communities, with outcomes that benefit the entire region, our employee-owners, and
businesses across the state.”
“Energy affordability is imperative for Maine’s business community, and we must adopt a
pragmatic agenda to make our state more competitive,” said Patrick Woodcock, president and
CEO of the Maine State Chamber of Commerce. “The Chamber supports the leadership of Chair
Bartlett and the Commission facilitating transmission development with the New England States
and issuing a coordinated regional procurement of large‑scale energy development in Maine
that could cost-effectively diversify our energy resources. The Maine State Chamber of
Commerce supports initiatives like this competitive and regional RFP that will enhance economic
opportunity and energy security for Maine businesses.”
“I’m a union ironworker, and I’m ready to get to work,” said Ron Flewelling, a Maine-based
member of Ironworkers Local 7. “Clean energy projects mean good, family-sustaining jobs and
more reliable, affordable energy for Maine people. They give workers like me a chance to put
our skills to use while strengthening our energy grid and building a cleaner future for our kids.
We need these projects to move forward.
The renewable energy industry supports competitive bid procurement and the Maine
Legislature’s direction to allow other New England states to participate, which will balance
project costs, lower regional energy prices, and reduce exposure to volatile fossil fuel markets.
“Expanding renewable energy resources through responsible wind development can help Maine
and the broader region deliver more affordable electricity to consumers,” said Francis Pullaro,
president of RENEW Northeast. “Through a competitively bid procurement, Maine will bring
online new Maine-made wind power, increase clean energy capacity and contribute to a more
reliable, resilient power system that supports growing demand and energy security.”
“Affordable energy is essential for Maine families and businesses, and responsible wind
development can help deliver it,” said Eliza Donoghue, executive director of the Maine
Renewable Energy Association. “Projects like this contribute to a more reliable, resilient
electricity system across the state. We are confident this effort will help to support opportunities
that make clean energy cost-effective and dependable for all Mainers.”
The MPUC will evaluate and negotiate the competitive bids, aiming to finalize contract terms in
Summer 2026. For more details on the RFP from the Maine Public Utilities Commission, click here.