Frequently Asked Questions
Who can join the network?
Anyone in Maine! You can join as an individual, a citizen group/committee, a municipal or tribal government, or a community-based non-profit organization.
What do I need to do to be a member?
Membership is free. Joining MAINECAN will not require any additional participation from our members. We will periodically share information through a newsletter, and you can then choose to participate in future opportunities. More opportunities through MAINECAN will come soon!
How do I receive communications from MAINECAN?
When you join MAINECAN, you will have the option to be added to a Google Group email list. You can specify how frequently you receive communications through the email list (each communication as it happens through the email list or a daily/weekly digest of emails). The Google Group will be monitored to reduce spam.
You can also join our monthly newsletter for updates on events, funding opportunities, resources, and more!
What if I have limited time or capacity?
There are three ways to participate in MAINECAN. Members may choose to participate in any way they have the time or capacity to do so.
- As a Community Member: this category is for communities, community-based groups, and community members leading or interested in learning more about leading local energy and climate resilience initiatives.
- As an Ally: this category is for individuals and entities that are supporting these community-led initiatives, or that are considering supporting communities’ initiatives in the future.
- As a MAINECAN Partner: this category is for entities that provide support for community groups and want to be involved in creating and implementing the network.
What defines a community group?
MAINECAN defines a community group as two or more citizens and/or municipal or tribal government staff and/or a community-based non-profit organization.
What does sustainable energy mean?
Renewable energy generation, energy efficiency, batteries and other energy storage, microgrids, beneficial electrification, and/or conservation in the electricity, heating, and/or transportation sectors; part of climate mitigation.
What does climate resilience mean?
Responding to challenges such as rising sea levels, extreme temperatures, storms, flooding, erosion, wind damage, drought, wildfires, and related issues; also known as climate adaptation.