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ME LD300

Bill

Status

Passed

5/27/2025

Primary Sponsor

Mathew McIntyre

Click for details

Origin

House of Representatives

132nd Legislature

AI Summary

  • Governor's Energy Office must conduct studies on expanding hydroelectric power and developing geothermal power plants in Maine, in consultation with the Public Utilities Commission, Department of Environmental Protection, and Maine Emergency Management Agency.

  • Hydroelectric study requires reviewing the February 2015 "Maine Hydropower Study," identifying dam sites with expansion potential, evaluating new technologies used in Alaska and two other geographically similar states, and assessing locations suitable for pumped storage hydropower systems.

  • Geothermal study must evaluate feasibility of geothermal power plants for electricity generation or heating/cooling, consulting with geologic engineering experts and assessing potential for district geothermal systems on brownfield sites and state-owned properties.

  • Reports with recommendations due to the Legislature's energy committee by January 15, 2027, with authority to introduce related legislation to the 133rd Legislature.

  • Approved by the Governor on May 29, 2025 as Chapter 39 of the Resolves.

Legislative Description

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

Alternative Energy

Last Action

FINALLY PASSED, in concurrence.

5/27/2025

Committee Referrals

Energy, Utilities And Technology1/30/2025

Full Bill Text

No bill text available