Western Maine Energy Storage Project
Western Maine Energy Storage Project

Western Maine Energy Storage

The pumped storage hydropower (PSH) project will be located on private land in Oxford County, in Western Maine, and is designed to incorporate the topographical features of the area, as well as existing transmission.

Why This Site?

This site offers strong elevation changes and natural basins that support efficient energy storage. A nearby transmission corridor means no new transmission lines are needed. The Androscoggin River can provide water for the initial fill with little impact to its flow.

Because the land was previously harvested for timber and already includes roads, less new development is required. The terrain also allows for restoration of natural drainage patterns after construction.

Oversight & Process

The project is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), with support from agencies like the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Maine environmental offices, and tribal and historic preservation groups.

The licensing process includes an application, public scoping sessions, technical studies, and a final decision from FERC.

Community Engagement

Western Maine Energy Storage is committed to working with local communities, environmental groups, sportsmen’s organizations, tribal governments, and other stakeholders. Community input is central to project planning and will continue throughout the process.

Project Map
Anticipated Project Development Timeline
  • 2023-2025

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    • Site Identification
    • Property Assessment
    • Conceptual Design
    • Feasibility Study

    PLANNING

  • 2025-2029

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    • Environmental Desktop and Field Studies
    • Permit-Level Design
    • Agency and Stakeholder Engagement
    • Permit Applications and Approvals

    PERMITTING PROCESS & STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT

  • 2029-2033

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    • Facility Design
    • Facility Construction
    • Grid Interconnect

    FINAL DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION

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