The Maine Public Utilities Commission has selected Central Maine Power (CMP) and Clearway Energy LLC for a new push to harness northern Maine’s wind power and connect it to the New England electricity grid, marking a pivotal step forward after several stalled attempts in the region.

CMP, owned by Avangrid, was chosen to build a 1,200-megawatt transmission line from Pittsfield to Haynesville, utilizing mostly existing corridors. This line aims to link Maine’s renewable energy directly to the regional grid, with nearly all project rights of way already secured. Meanwhile, Clearway Energy Group, based in San Francisco, was picked for an 800-megawatt onshore wind farm in northern Maine—600 megawatts of which would be sent through CMP’s new line.

Regulators highlighted that this round of bidding followed extensive feedback from developers and a multistate approach, with neighboring New England states like Massachusetts, Connecticut, Vermont, and Rhode Island sharing project costs. This partnership means Maine ratepayers could be responsible for less than 11% of the transmission line’s total cost, easing the financial burden and boosting the state’s energy independence.

Clean energy advocates praised the potential for economic and environmental benefits, while conservation groups pledged to monitor the projects’ local impacts and environmental standards. The next steps include contract negotiations, regulatory approvals, and finalizing power agreements, setting the stage for substantial investments, job growth, and a greener power grid across Maine and New England.

DOWNTOWN DINING & NIGHTLIFE

Houlton offers a variety of locally owned dining options.

😴 Tip of the Day: Protect Your Rest

Don’t wait until you’re exhausted to decide it’s time to sleep.

Give yourself a regular bedtime and create a 30–60 minute wind-down period beforehand. Dim the lights, put away stimulating screens when possible, keep the room cool and quiet, and let tomorrow’s problems wait until tomorrow.

Most adults generally need at least 7 hours of sleep each night, although individual needs vary.

And remember: rest isn’t wasted time—it’s maintenance. A well-rested mind reacts faster, makes better decisions, and handles stress more effectively.

Today’s reminder: You recharge your phone before it hits zero. Give yourself the same consideration.