Maine Governor Janet Mills has launched a new initiative aimed at subsidizing Starlink terminals and service to connect 9,000 homes and businesses that currently lack internet access.

This initiative, called Working Internet ASAP, will leverage Elon Musk's Starlink satellite internet service to reach the most remote areas of the state.

The program is part of broader efforts in Maine to enhance internet access, which includes plans for $350 million in new funding under the Biden Administration's Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment program set for 2025.

To implement this program, the state will conduct a bulk purchase of low Earth orbit satellite hardware and service reservations from Starlink, specifically targeting the remaining 1.5% of locations without internet access.

Starlink, the largest low Earth orbit satellite provider, currently serves over 4 million subscribers worldwide with a constellation of approximately 6,000 satellites.

Governor Mills has set an ambitious goal to close the digital divide in Maine by the end of 2024, underscoring the necessity for reliable broadband access for all residents.

Andrew Butcher, President of the Maine Connectivity Authority, emphasized the significance of this program in promoting digital equity and expanding broadband access across the state.

However, details regarding whether the state will provide Starlink equipment for free, at a discount, or through a rebate program, along with the terms of monthly service payments, have yet to be disclosed.

Currently, Starlink terminals are priced at $599, with a monthly service fee of $120 for an unlimited data plan, according to the company's official website.