MAINE MONITOR • June 22, 2025
Shellfish farming is a small but fast-growing segment of Maine’s seafood sector. Now these enterprises — and more broadly the aquaculture industry — are emerging as first movers in the quest to electrify Maine’s working waterfront. Phasing out gasoline and diesel fuel has obvious climate and pollution benefits, but there’s also a business case for electrification. Enduring the constant drone of gas-fired generators and breathing the fumes are hazards for sea farm workers. Generators also are finicky to maintain around salt water and the noise can annoy shoreside residents. Solar and battery power could lower operating costs and create quieter coves.