Jacobs to lead clean energy planning for Maine port electrification project

Jacobs has been selected by the Maine Department of Transportation (MaineDOT) to provide consulting services for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Clean Ports Grant – funded Maine Port Electrification Clean Energy Planning Project. The initiative supports MaineDOT’s commitment to decarbonize operations at the ports of Portland, Eastport, Rockland and Searsport.

The project will deliver comprehensive emissions inventories, grid infrastructure assessments and electrification feasibility studies to prepare the state’s ports for future zero-emission operations. Jacobs will also support MaineDOT with workforce development planning, stakeholder engagement and creation of a public-facing project website to keep communities informed and engaged. This multi-year initiative will provide a comprehensive roadmap for reducing emissions and modernizing infrastructure across Maine and is expected to be completed by December 2027.

“Ports are critical gateways for economic growth and environmental stewardship,” says Jacobs Vice President and Director of Operations Northeast Transportation Caitlin Johnson. “By advancing electrification strategies tailored to Maine’s unique operations, this project will help reduce emissions, improve air quality and support Maine’s long-term clean energy and climate goals.”

Maine’s ports play distinct but interconnected roles in supporting the state’s economy and coastal communities. Portland handles containerized cargo and cruise activity; Searsport handles bulk and energy shipments; Eastport, known for its deep-water capacity, supports commercial operations and is expanding cruise visits; and Rockland provides essential ferry services. Together, these ports form a resilient transportation network that underpins Maine’s supply chain, drives tourism and supports long-term regional development.

Jacobs brings extensive experience delivering port electrification planning in the U.S., with recent projects including PortMiami, the Port of Cleveland and the Manhattan and Brooklyn Cruise Terminals, applying global expertise to create solutions that are technically sound and regionally grounded.