The Maine Department of Energy Resources (DOER, formerly the Governor’s Energy Office) is conducting a study to investigate the potential for hydroelectric power to support state goals, pursuant to Resolves 2025, Ch. 39 "Resolve, to Direct the Governor's Energy Office to Study Expanding the Use of Hydroelectric Power and the Development of a Geothermal Power Plant in the State”.
The purpose of this study is to review the current operation of and opportunities for the expansion of hydroelectric power and energy storage in the State. To satisfy the requirements of the Resolve, the DOER must:
- Review the findings of any previous studies of hydroelectric power facilities in the State to identify dam sites within the State that have the greatest potential to be efficiently expanded or upgraded;
- Review new technologies being used in hydroelectric power facilities in other states and evaluate whether those technologies could be used in this State to improve or expand the hydroelectric power industry; and
- Identify locations within the State that may be suitable for the development of pumped storage hydropower systems.
DOER anticipates conducting stakeholder engagement associated with this study in 2026.