Maine’s Missed Opportunity for Energy Independence: How to Turn the Ship Around
Mainers have been discussing the rising costs of electricity for some time, but recent news about tariffs on Canada and Governor Mills' comments regarding Maine's dependence on Canadian electricity highlight this reliance as a strategic vulnerability.
Governor Mills’ Statement on Trump Administration’s Tariffs Announcement
While past efforts to achieve greater energy self-sufficiency have not been successful, Maine still has an opportunity to take control of its energy future. The critical question is: will Maine take action, or will it continue to depend on foreign sources at its own expense?
Why Is Maine So Dependent on Canada?
Maine’s reliance on Canada stems from geography, infrastructure, and policy choices. The state shares a long border with Quebec and New Brunswick, making Canadian energy imports a convenient option. Over the years, Maine has developed strong grid connections to Canadian hydroelectricity and natural gas pipelines, but weak links to U.S. energy sources. While this has provided stability in the past, it now poses a significant risk due to fluctuating trade policies and increasing costs.
This reliance is most evident in three key areas:
Electricity: Maine imports a significant portion of its power from Hydro-Québec.
Natural Gas: Maine lacks major pipeline connections to U.S. gas fields and relies on Canadian imports.
Fuel & Heating Costs: A substantial amount of refined fuel comes from Canada, making Maine vulnerable to tariffs and trade restrictions.
With energy prices on the rise and new tariffs on the table, Maine must rethink its approach to energy security.
Missed Opportunities: Where Maine Went Wrong
Despite multiple chances to shift toward greater energy independence, Maine has repeatedly failed to act. Here are some of the key missteps:
Limited Expansion of U.S. Natural Gas Pipelines
Although Maine receives some natural gas from the Marcellus Shale, proposed pipeline projects aimed at enhancing supply routes were blocked due to environmental opposition and a lack of investment. Maine's failure to expand its infrastructure to improve direct connections to U.S. gas fields has left it vulnerable to fluctuations in supply and pricing, particularly during peak demand periods.
The Lack of Nuclear Energy Development
While Maine has explored nuclear energy in the past (e.g., the Maine Yankee Nuclear Power Plant), there has been little movement toward expanding nuclear power. The advent of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) could provide a safer, more efficient alternative. However, political resistance, regulatory complexity, and the history of nuclear power safety concerns have prevented any significant push toward new nuclear energy projects in Maine.
The Lack of Large-Scale Energy Storage
Maine lacks sufficient battery storage or pumped hydro facilities to store excess energy. Without storage, Maine must rely on imported electricity when demand is high rather than using locally produced renewable energy.
The Underutilization of Hydro Power and Hydrokinetic Energy
Unlike Canada, Maine has not fully explored the potential of hydro and hydrokinetic energy, which harnesses the power of flowing water, such as tides and river currents, to generate electricity. While the state has some traditional hydroelectric dams, it has not invested in large-scale hydrokinetic projects that could tap into its abundant water resources. While regulatory and environmental concerns have hindered the development of these technologies, with the right investments and strategies, Maine can generate reliable and cost-effective renewable energy instead of importing it from Canada.
The Overlooked Potential of Geothermal Energy
While geothermal energy has been supported on a small scale for heat pumps, it appears underexplored for larger-scale operations. This oversight may lead Mainers to miss out on its potential to provide stable, low-cost heating, cooling, and electricity.
Overall, focusing on energy imports instead of investing in self-reliant energy systems has left Maine vulnerable. Vulnerable to price fluctuations, foreign policy changes, and trade disputes.
Not investing in self-reliant energy systems has left Maine vulnerable to price fluctuations, trade disputes, and foreign policy changes—putting the state in a precarious position. As a state that experiences extreme winters and high energy demands, this dependence on external sources threatens not only economic stability but also the well-being of its citizens.
How Maine Can Turn the Ship Around?
Despite these missed opportunities outlined in the previous section, there is still hope. Maine can reverse course and build a stronger, more independent energy system by focusing on these key areas:
Expand U.S. Pipeline Connections
Instead of relying on Canadian natural gas, Maine should expand direct connections to U.S. gas fields, particularly in Pennsylvania. Reviving stalled pipeline proposals and securing federal support could lower heating costs and reduce vulnerability to tariffs.
Strengthen Links to the U.S. Electric Grid
Maine must invest in new transmission infrastructure to connect with U.S. renewable energy sources, such as New York’s hydroelectricity or Midwest wind power, reducing reliance on Canadian imports while ensuring stable and competitive electricity prices.
Invest in Nuclear Energy
Maine should seriously consider Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and next-generation nuclear technology as a solution to its energy dependence. SMRs offer reliable, emissions-free power with lower land requirements than traditional nuclear plants. The state should streamline regulations and offer incentives to attract nuclear investment.
Invest in Large-Scale Battery Storage
Developing battery storage facilities would allow Maine to store excess renewable energy for later use, reducing the need for imported electricity during periods of high demand. Expanding hydrogen storage or pumped hydro projects could further strengthen energy security by offering additional means to store and release energy when needed.
Maine has already made progress in this direction with the passage of Public Law 2021 Chapter 298 (LD 528 - An Act To Advance Energy Storage in Maine), signed into law by Governor Mills in June 2021. However, to achieve true energy independence, Maine may need to exceed current storage goals and expand capacity beyond what is currently planned. By the end of 2025, the state aims to install 300 megawatts (MW) of energy storage capacity, which could provide about 26% of Maine’s total electricity needs at any given time. The state has set a goal of 400 MW by 2030, which would meet nearly 20% of Maine’s peak demand as of 2021. While these storage targets are important, they may need to be further expanded if Maine is to achieve true energy independence without relying on high-capacity factor projects like nuclear energy.
Expand Hydro Power and Hydrokinetic Development
Maine has an abundance of rivers and tidal resources that could support both traditional hydroelectric power and emerging hydrokinetic technologies. Rather than relying on imported energy from Canada, the state should consider upgrading existing facilities and integrating hydrokinetic systems. By improving and diversifying its hydro infrastructure—encompassing both conventional hydroelectric and hydrokinetic technologies—Maine could generate more clean, reliable energy while reducing costs. This approach would not only enhance the state’s energy independence and create new economic opportunities, but it could also position Maine as a leader in innovative renewable energy solutions, which is something we often hear when it comes to offshore wind-but it doesn't have to be through offshore wind.
Utilize Biomass and Geothermal Energy
It is worth exploring geothermal energy, especially Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS), an advanced technology that allows for leveraging geothermal energy in areas without natural hydrothermal resources by creating artificial reservoirs. With proper investment and site selection, it could be particularly beneficial for rural communities that face challenges accessing reliable energy.
Revisit Grid Modernization: Undergrounding Power Lines for Resilience
While Maine’s energy independence in the future depends on new sources of power, it's equally important to ensure that the grid infrastructure delivering that power is resilient and reliable. In addition to expanding energy generation and storage, Maine should consider revisiting past assessments concerning undergrounding power lines.
The frequent storms and extreme weather conditions in Maine often lead to costly repairs and prolonged power outages caused by downed overhead powerlines. Underground lines, while requiring a higher upfront investment, offer long-term reliability, reducing the frequency and cost of repairs caused by downed trees, ice, and high winds. By focusing on critical infrastructure—such as urban areas, coastal towns, and rural communities with frequent outages—Maine can ensure that its grid is strong in capacity and resilience.
Reform Energy Policies to Encourage Independence
To thrive in independent energy production, Maine needs legislative and regulatory reforms to promote in-state energy production and reduce bureaucratic barriers by providing clearer and faster pathways for permitting while ensuring that environmental concerns are properly addressed. Paired with financial incentives for grid upgrades and renewable projects, simplifying investment opportunities for businesses, and prioritizing U.S.-based energy sources over foreign imports, this can pave the way for a more independent energy landscape.
The Stakes are High - Strengthening Maine’s Energy Resilience
Whether or not Maine takes bold action on energy independence will determine its future energy landscape. Investing in renewable sources like hydrokinetic, biomass, and geothermal—coupled with grid resilience—will ensure that Maine isn’t just relying on imported energy or vulnerable infrastructure. By making these investments now, Maine can stand on its own feet, reduce energy dependency, and protect its future from external risks.
As the Maine Constitution (Article I, Section 2) affirms, “all power is inherent in the people,” and it is the right of the people to demand action that ensures their safety and happiness. If energy dependency continues to leave Maine exposed to external risks, the people have both the right and the responsibility to demand policies prioritizing local energy independence. This is not just about politics—it is about securing the future of Maine’s communities, economy, and natural resources.
The time to act is now—before the next price spike or trade dispute reminds us once again that Maine cannot afford to rely on another country for its energy needs.
What do you think? Should Maine take stronger action to achieve energy independence? Join the conversation and let us know how these changes could impact your community.
