One of the first Net Energy Billing Community Solar projects in Maine has just started producing clean energy this month. PowerMarket, an employee-owned leader in community solar management, has partnered with SunRaise, a New England solar energy developer, owner, and operator, to bring this renewable energy option to Maine utility customers.

This project sits on the roof of a local Maine business, Pine State Trading. Having just marked its 80th year in operation, this privately held family business has always been forward-thinking and was excited about the prospect of this project.

“We are very committed to making sure that generationally, we're always looking forward. We’re always trying to improve our community. And we're always trying to reduce our carbon footprint because we want to be best in class…We want to make sure that by being the first [community solar project in Gardiner, Maine], that we lead the way and we hope to support this vision for other businesses in our community.” - Gena Canning, Board of Directors at Pine State Trading

The solar project on the roof of Pine State Trading is producing clean energy for the community. At 1.35 MW, this project will generate over 1,500,000 kwh/year of clean energy, providing CMP customers who are a part of the project with savings on their electricity bills. These are Maine residents and organizations who are important members of the community, like John F. Murphy Homes.

“It’s been great to see this project come to life. Being from New England, we wanted to keep this project local. We have gotten to know members of the community, like John F. Murphy Homes, who are doing great work and we are happy that we can support their mission through our project. I’m proud of Governor Mills’ Administration and what it will mean for Maine residents.” - Patrick Jackson, Co-Founder of SunRaise Investments

Project participants will not have to wait long to start receiving savings on their electricity bills. This project is fully subscribed and has just begun producing clean energy. That means that they will start to see savings soon.

“Our local Maine team has spoken to thousands of residents about community solar and its benefits, so we are thrilled to help one of the first projects in Maine start providing tangible environmental and economic benefits for the state and participants. We are excited to bring this project online and anticipate our Maine office to grow as we continue to bring more projects online for years to come.” - Nick Baudouin, Co-Founder of PowerMarket