Maine's new Democratic governor is taking steps to install solar panels on the governor's mansion as she calls for the state to be more welcoming of renewable energy.

Gov. Janet Mills' administration posted a request for proposals Friday to move ahead on plans to design and install a photovoltaic system that would supply 50 percent of the Blaine House's electricity needs.

Mills in her inaugural address announced she'd put solar panels on the governor's residence. Her predecessor, former Republican Gov. Paul LePage, often criticized subsidies for solar power.

Her administration says it's seeking a "cost-efficient" proposal for a contract expected to start this April through 2014.

The state is looking for bidders with a three-year track record of at least $100,000 worth of solar photovoltaic work in Maine.