Jack Kenworthy of Walden Renewables and Sanford Deputy Mayor Maura Herlihy
Photo: Courtesy
Press release
Company and local officials on Nov. 20 cut the ribbon on a 28-megawatt on the Mousam River Solar Project, one of the largest solar installations in southern Maine. The project on a 140-acre parcel on New Dam Road is estimated to be capable of offsetting the power needs of nearly 6,000 average households.
“This is a great day for clean energy in Maine,” said Jack Kenworthy, chief development officer at Walden Renewables, operator of the project. “The success of this project reflects the collaboration between landowners, city officials, and our development team. Sanford has been an exceptional partner, and we’re excited to contribute to the region’s clean energy momentum.”
The project stretches across several privately owned parcels, providing an opportunity for long-term commercial tax revenue for the community while expanding Sanford’s tax base and supporting the state’s broader transition to renewable power. It was developed by Walden Renewables, which has worked closely with local officials, landowners, and partners throughout the project’s planning and construction.
“Today’s ribbon cutting at Mousam River Solar is an outstanding achievement for Sanford and for Maine,” said Dan Burgess, acting commissioner of the Maine Department of Energy Resources. “I congratulate the local community and Walden Renewables on completing this project, which will generate affordable, reliable power here in Maine, create jobs and economic investment in the region, and provide long-term benefits for the community.”
In addition to supporting Maine’s clean energy goals, the project reflects Sanford’s commitment to attracting sustainable development and new investment. City leaders have noted the value of responsibly sited solar in strengthening local infrastructure and broadening economic opportunities.
“Projects like this don’t just generate clean energy—they generate real economic value for Sanford,” said Sanford Deputy Mayor Maura Herlihy. “The Mousam River Solar Project expands our commercial tax base and strengthens the city’s long-term revenue picture. It’s exactly the kind of investment that supports sustainable growth for our community.”
“This project underscores just how much opportunity there is for Maine’s future workforce,” said Cait Grant, vice president of York County Community College. “YCCC’s mission is to develop an educated, skilled, and adaptable workforce, and as renewable energy projects come online across the state, the need for well-trained technicians, electricians, and project specialists will only continue to grow. We’re proud to help build that next generation of skilled professionals who will power Maine’s economy and strengthen our communities.”
Sanford is one of the top communities in Maine for solar installation, with about 90 MW of installed capacity — second in the state only to Farmington.
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