As Maine advances toward ambitious climate and energy goals, understanding the scale and trajectory of its clean energy economy is essential for policymakers, workforce leaders, and industry stakeholders. The state’s clean energy sector has emerged as a major economic driver, employing more than 16,000 workers in 2024 and growing faster than both the broader state economy and the national clean energy workforce.
Drawing on data from the U.S. Energy and Employment Report, economic modeling, and patent analysis, this report (produced for the Maine Department of Energy Resources) provides a comprehensive view of Maine’s traditional energy industry as well as the state’s clean energy industry across key sectors, including: energy efficiency, renewable electric power generation, grid modernization and storage, renewable fuels, and alternative transportation. The findings highlight the central role of energy efficiency—accounting for nearly 60 percent of all clean energy jobs—as well as the importance of construction and professional services in supporting industry growth. At the same time, Maine continues to lead New England in clean energy job growth, driven by strong policy commitments, investment in workforce development, and expanding deployment of technologies like heat pumps and solar energy.
The report also examines regional employment patterns, workforce demographics, and innovation trends, offering insight into how clean energy is shaping economic opportunity across the state. As Maine works toward 100 percent clean electricity by 2040, these findings provide a data-driven foundation for strategies that support continued industry growth and strengthen workforce pipelines.
