Reducing emissions through renewables
MaineDOT has identified and pursued a few ways to decrease emissions through the use of alternative fuels and through the generation of renewable energy. Electrification is not a one-size-fits-all solution and MaineDOT has recognized this and continues to evaluate other techniques for reducing the agency’s building, on-road, and fleet emissions.
- Solar Panels
MaineDOT has installed solar facilities at I-95 Exit 109, I-95 Exit 112, and at the Augusta State Airport, utilizing unusable land to generate clean energy. The facilities went into operation in 2023 and 2024, with pollinator plant species planted around each solar facility. The State of Maine entered into a Net Energy Billing Credit Agreement with the developer, and the facilities produce approximately 15,000,000 kWh annually, which are sent directly to the Central Maine Power grid. These agreements allow the Augusta Capital Complex, which includes the State House, Blaine House, MaineDOT, and other government buildings to receive credits that will reduce state electric bills by approximately $8,000,000 over the next 20 years. The State will also receive approximately 300,000 Renewable Energy Certifications over this period.
The cost to the State of Maine is nominal. The project developer is covering the cost of development, construction, operation, and maintenance. The developer is also paying to lease the land from the state for the next two decades. MaineDOT is proud to lead by example by harnessing otherwise unusable land to generate clean energy, supporting farmers by planting pollinator species, and saving taxpayers money without depleting more precious natural resources. For more information, refer to the MaineDOT Solar Video.
- Biodiesel/Biofuel
MaineDOT continues to reduce emissions from its heavy-duty fleet through expanded biodiesel use. MaineDOT uses B20 (a blend of 20% of biodiesel and 80% petroleum diesel) Bioheat in 22 heating oil tanks at MaineDOT facilities in Southern Maine. MaineDOT has continued its partnership with Maine Standard Biofuel, using biodiesel in 15 of its diesel stations from Scarborough to Bangor. In 2024, 237 heavy-duty trucks and construction equipment operated on biodiesel, up from 170 in 2023, using over 209,744 gallons. Additionally, MaineDOT sold 18,529 gallons of biodiesel to other state agencies and municipalities that used it for medium and heavy-duty fleets. 53 heavy-duty trucks not meeting clean idle standards were replaced with certified clean idle models within 2023 and 2024. Telematics were installed in 560 heavy-duty trucks helping MaineDOT monitor and reduce idling for further fuel and emissions savings.
- Hybrid Ferries
Electric ferry technology is improving but, like transit technology, the available models only fit certain trip types and routes. Hybrid ferries are a strong emission reduction alternative. MaineDOT is committed to considering hybrid ferry options for all future ferry replacements.
- The Maine State Ferry Service's first hybrid-assist ferry, the Captain Almer Dinsmore, is under construction at Senesco Marine in Kingston, Rhode Island. The ferry has been conducting contractor sea trials and troubleshooting issues with the hybrid integration system. The ferry will be delivered to Maine later this year. The ferry will be based out of Rockland.
- The replacement for the Margaret Chase Smith, connecting the mainland of Lincolnville to Islesboro, is currently being redesigned to a conventional single ended hybrid assist ferry. MaineDOT received a $28 million grant for low emissions ferries. This project will be readvertised in the Fall of 2026.
- Acadia Gateway Center
The Acadia Gateway Center, in Trenton, is an intermodal facility and welcome center for visitors and employees of Acadia National Park, owned and constructed by MaineDOT. The Center will offer regional tourism and park information, visitor restrooms, and serve as an island explorer transit hub.
The welcome center incorporates rooftop solar panels and high-efficiency mechanical equipment. Lighting is primarily LEDs, and the walls and roof are Structural Insulated Panel System. The Center has a geothermal heat pump, which will provide heating and cooling for the building.
Acadia Gateway Center has eight publicly accessible electric vehicle Direct Current Fast Charger ports and nine Level 2 ports.