Statement: Maine’s Climate Action Plan provides roadmap to 100 percent renewable energy

Environment Maine

AUGUSTA — The Maine Climate Council released a new statewide Climate Action Plan today, outlining the steps required to reduce emissions and achieve carbon neutrality in Maine by 2045. The council, which is an assembly of scientists, industry leaders, bipartisan local and state elected officials, and engaged citizens, determined that failing to take climate action carries a far higher cost than accelerating the transition to a clean energy economy. 

Following the council’s presentation, Maine Gov. Janet Mills announced a series of actions and key initiatives her administration will take to address the climate crisis and protect Maine’s people and environment. These actions further ensure that the state reaches the renewable energy requirements set by the Mills Administration — 80 percent renewable energy by 2030 and 100 percent by 2050. These are some of the most aggressive goals in the country.

Anya Fetcher, state director of Environment Maine, made the following statement:

“Maine’s Climate Action Plan provides a clear roadmap for reducing pollution, driving clean energy innovation, preserving natural spaces, and protecting the health and resilience of Mainers. Backed by some of the most comprehensive scientific assessments about climate change, this ambitious plan solidifies Maine’s position as a leader in fighting global warming.

“There is much to be excited about in this plan. It delivers specific commitments to accelerate and facilitate the transition to electric vehicles; protect Maine’s environment by promoting natural climate solutions and increasing both green and blue carbon sequestration; and reduce carbon emissions in Maine’s energy and industrial sectors through clean-energy innovation, such as offshore wind.

“We applaud Gov. Mills, the more than 250 Maine people who served on the Climate Council and its working groups, and the thousands of Mainers who advocated for a bold Climate Action Plan. We look forward to partnering with the legislature and the people of Maine to codify and build on these commitments.

“We also recognize that shifting the paradigm on climate will require additional work from our state’s federal officials and we intend to push our Congressional delegation to serve as a strong voice in Washington to implement complementary policies that will aid in the battle to beat global warming.”

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Environment Maine works for clean air, clean water, clean energy, wildlife and open spaces, and a livable climate. Our members across the state put grassroots support behind our research and advocacy. Environment Maine is part of Environment America, a national network of 29 state environmental groups.