Maine Department of Energy Resources Request for Information on Thermal Energy Networks Program Creation

The Maine Governor's Energy Office (GEO) and Maine Department of Energy Resources (DOER) issued a Request for Information (RFI) to solicit input on the potential creation of a thermal energy networks program in Maine, as directed by Resolves 2025, chapter 67 (LD 1619), signed into law by Governor Janet Mills on June 11, 2025. A thermal energy network is defined as a system of interconnected piping that circulates thermal transfer water to provide low-emissions heating and cooling to two or more buildings through water source heat pumps, with primary thermal energy sources including geothermal resources or recovered thermal energy such as waste heat from buildings or wastewater systems.

The RFI seeks information on relevant frameworks, pilot projects, costs, feasibility and applicability, recommended processes, life-cycle analyses, electric grid impacts, emissions reduction relevance, labor considerations, and housing affordability impacts. Respondents are invited to address one or more of eleven specific information request topics, including available research on thermal energy network costs and efficiencies, feasibility for residential/commercial/industrial sectors, pilot project considerations, technology cost-benefit analyses, grid impacts, emissions reduction potential, workforce needs, funding opportunities, housing affordability, and technology alternatives or companion solutions.

The Governor's Energy Office will prepare a summary report in consultation with the Efficiency Maine Trust (EMT) and the Office of the Public Advocate (OPA), to be submitted to the Joint Standing Committee on Energy, Utilities and Technology by January 15, 2026. The GEO/DOER may include recommendations for developing a thermal energy networks program in the report.

This RFI does not constitute funding availability or acceptance of applications for financial assistance. Information collected will inform the fulfillment of statutory requirements and may be published on the GEO/DOER website. Responses may be subject to Maine's Freedom of Access Act, and confidential business information should not be included.