May 7: Environmental & Energy Updates

"I have been attending E2Tech events since I started working for CES (Competitive Energy Services) in Maine's energy industry over 10 years ago. Through E2Tech I've made meaningful connections and gained broad exposure to the great work being done throughout Maine's environmental, energy, and technology sectors. I am proud to serve on the Board and contribute towards fostering the same opportunities for my CES colleagues, industry peers, our clients, and the wider E2Tech community."

Matt Gamache, Chief Operating Officer at Competitive Energy Services

Graphic for upcoming event with Ocean Data Network and New England Marine Monitoring at the Roux Institute

Upcoming Event Details:

3rd Annual ClimateWork Maine Summit

Thursday May 8 in Augusta — All day

This annual summit connects hundreds of industry experts, thought leaders, and passionate individuals like yourself, all committed to finding innovative solutions. It’s a day filled with informative sessions and engaging discussions that focus on actionable climate solutions so you can make a real difference in your community and your business. Whether you are a business owner looking to adopt sustainable practices or an advocate for change in your local area, this summit will equip you with the tools you need to drive climate action effectively. (sign up here). "Fish Tales: Stories about Modernizing Oceanographic and Fisheries Data Collection." Friday May 9 in Portland- 12:00-1:30p Join us May 9 at 12:00 pm for a climate innovation chat at the Roux Institute with New England Marine Monitoring and Ocean Data Network about data collection and how technology and climate change are impacting the type of data collected.  Maine’s ocean and fisheries industries play a vital role in the state’s economy and way of life — but the impact of the data they generate can range far beyond just the traditional uses. From tracking extreme weather events to monitoring local fish populations and detecting long-term temperature trends, ocean data is a powerful tool for understanding and responding to environmental changes. (sign up here) Other Updates:

Maine Communities Awarded 8 Million Dollars for Climate Resilience

Riverbank stabilization, battery-based backup power, heat pump installations and lighting upgrades are among the climate initiatives underway in 166 communities that received a total of $8 million in grants earlier this month. The money comes through the Community Resilience Partnership, established in 2021 and is one of a number of storm preparedness and recovery programs created or renewed by legislation signed into law in April. The goal of the partnership is to help communities protect people, businesses and infrastructure from flooding, storm surge and other climate effects. to learn more, read here. Sea Grant Funding Restored to University of Maine

After abrupt funding cancellation at the end of February, Maine Sea Grant funding is officially restored to the University of Maine. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) notified the university that it received three more years of funding. Multiple Maine congress members pushed back on the funding loss, citing the sea grant’s importance on Maine’s coastal economy and oceanic health. Maine Sea Grant will continue to work on coastal workforce development, hands on marine science education, fisheries growth, and storm resilience. For more information, read here.