Maine Ocean Renewable Energy

Two research strategies shape our ocean renewable energy work. A central component of this effort is the establishment of a citizen-science
research initiative that will assist in expanding public access to key
concepts and information critical to engaging in a productive dialogue about whether or not and where to site ocean-renewable energy. It is our belief that fishermen, amateur ornithologists, students and others who work on and enjoy the coast of Maine have much to contribute to this discussion.

A concurrent research effort involves expanding community participation in the marine spatial-planning discussions that are likely to evolve out of the state¹s efforts to site ocean renewable energy.

These research efforts have come at an important time.  In an Executive Order dated November 7, 2008, Governor Baldacci established the Ocean Energy Task Force (OETF) to recommend strategies on how to develop ocean energy projects in Maine state waters. Dr. George Baker of the Island Institute was appointed to the task force and other Institute staff members were asked to provide input to various subcommittees.

In June 2009, legislation recommended by the task force (L.D. 1465: http://www.maine.gov/doc/initiatives/oceanenergy/pdf/PUBLIC270.pdf) was passed unanimously by the Maine State Legislature.  A key aspect of this legislation mandated state agencies to site up to five “ocean energy testing areas” in Maine state waters by December 15, 2009.  In order to select these sites, Maine State Planning Office and the Department of Conservation analyzed hundreds of layers of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) data (some provided by the Island Institute) and solicited public comment during a multi-faceted outreach effort.

Throughout the test site selection process, Institute staff worked with task force members to ensure that the voices of fishermen and other island and coastal residents would be heard.  These efforts build on the work of our Community Wind program which seeks to empower communities by giving them the tools they need to evaluate various types of renewable energy projects and by facilitating extensive community engagement, education and discussion of local benefits. 

On December 15, 2009, Governor Baldacci announced the final ocean energy test sites.  As plans develop for these sites, the Institute is committed to serving as a resource to potentially affected communities.

 

Partner organizations:

State of Maine Planning Office - Ocean Energy Task Force

State of Maine Planning Office - Maine Coastal Program

Department of Conservation

Maine Sea Grant