April 28, 2026
Microgrids 101
how independent energy systems can support rural maine communities
Microgrids are having a moment in rural communities—and for good reason. Island Institute’s resilient energy team breaks down what microgrids are and how they fit in coastal Maine’s unique and often challenging energy landscape.
March 24, 2026
Reflections from the 2026 Maine Fishermen's Forum
Island Institute's takeaways from the 51st-annual convening
Island Institute co-planned and facilitated two sessions at this year's Fishermen's Forum. We asked our programs staff to reflect on the conversations, lectures, and lessons of this year’s Forum. Here’s what they had to say.
March 10, 2026
Day in Community: Kate Cart, Island Institute Fellow
From writing grants to photographing clam diggers, spend a day with Kate Cart, the Island Institute Fellow in Phippsburg, ME!
February 17, 2026
The Systems of Mud
Lessons from clammers, comedians, and the milky ribbon worm.
Katherine (Kate) Cart, the Island Institute Fellow based in Phippsburg, returns to the mudflats with local clammers Terry and Casey Watson. They discuss communication challenges, comedy, and the milk ribbon worm.
January 21, 2026
Island Institute Welcomes New Communities to the Energy Technology Innovation Partnership Project
Belfast and Wiscasset join national program providing energy planning and analysis support
Blurb: Belfast, Wiscasset, Cranberry Isles, and Islesboro are among the new cohort of a national program providing energy planning and analysis support. Kate Klibansky, Senior Community Development Officer, breaks down Island Institute's role in supporting these communities.
January 9, 2026
Our Top Five Stories of 2025
Your favorite stories, straight from Maine's rocky coast
We looked back through the articles, videos, and blogs Island Institute produced this past year and compiled our favorites. Check out our top five stories of 2025!
December 17, 2025
Holiday Wishes from Island Institute
Through every season and storm, for years past and years to come, community keeps us anchored. Happy holidays from Island Institute!
November 25, 2025
Photo Story: A Day in Community on Islesboro
Rural coastal communities often face higher energy prices than other parts of Maine. For many communities, including Islesboro, that means that energy planning is a top priority. Click through a visual recap of our energy knowledge-exchange trip to Islesboro.
October 28, 2025
Kelp Lessons From Portugal
What Maine can learn
Sam Feldman, a community development officer at Island Institute, traveled to Portugal to learn from the world’s leading experts on kelp cultivation and restoration. He shares his reflections on how this knowledge can shape Maine’s marine ecosystems and economy.
October 28, 2025
When the Boats Come In
Innovation Takes Root Along Maine’s Coast
Senior community development officer Christa Thorpe reflects on the launch of Fishing Plus—a new business accelerator program designed for a cohort of lobstermen, crew members, and their families to build or grow side and second businesses.
