Navigating your electricity options in Maine can seem complex, but understanding your choices can lead to significant savings and better energy plans. As a Maine resident, you have the power to choose who supplies your electricity. This article will help you Compare Electricity Suppliers, understand your options beyond the standard service, and make an informed decision for your energy needs.
Understanding Your Electricity Options in Maine
In Maine, you essentially have two main paths for your electricity supply: the Standard Offer and Competitive Electricity Providers (CEPs). If you take no action, you automatically receive the Standard Offer service. This rate is determined through a bidding process managed by the Maine Public Utilities Commission (PUC). It’s designed to provide a default, regulated electricity rate for residents.
However, you’re not limited to this default option. Maine’s energy market allows for Competitive Electricity Providers (CEPs) to offer electricity supply plans directly to consumers. These CEPs are private companies that compete for your business, potentially offering different rates, contract terms, and renewable energy options compared to the Standard Offer.
Choosing a CEP means entering into a contract with a private supplier for your electricity. It’s crucial to understand that switching to a CEP only changes your electricity supplier, not the delivery of your electricity. Companies like Central Maine Power (CMP) and Versant Power (formerly Bangor Hydro) will still be responsible for delivering the electricity to your home and maintaining the power lines, regardless of who your supplier is.
Key Factors to Compare When Choosing an Electricity Supplier
When you compare electricity suppliers in Maine, several factors should influence your decision:
- Rate (cents per kWh): This is the price you pay for each kilowatt-hour of electricity you use. CEPs offer various rates, which may be fixed or variable.
- Fixed Rate Term: A fixed rate term means your electricity rate will remain the same for the duration of your contract. This provides price predictability. Terms can range from a few months to several years.
- Variable Rate: Variable rates fluctuate based on market conditions. While they might be lower than fixed rates at times, they can also increase unexpectedly, leading to unpredictable bills.
- Renewable Energy Options: Many CEPs offer plans with different percentages of renewable energy sources. If you prioritize green energy, compare the renewable content of different plans.
- Contract Terms and Conditions: Always carefully read the terms and conditions before signing up with a CEP. Pay attention to contract length, renewal policies, and any potential early termination fees, although many listed here do not have such fees.
Maine Electricity Supplier Comparison Tables
To help you compare electricity suppliers, the tables below provide a snapshot of CEP rates in Maine as of February 1, 2025. These rates are specifically for customers of Central Maine Power (CMP) and Versant Power (Bangor Hydro), the two main electricity delivery companies in Maine.
Important: Electricity rates can change frequently and without notice. Always visit the supplier’s website or call them directly to confirm the most current rates and thoroughly review the complete terms and conditions before enrolling.
CMP Customers
| Competitive Electricity Provider | Rate for CMP Customers (¢/kWh) | Fixed Rate Term | Early Termination Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Residential and Small Commercial Standard Offer(PUC) | 10.613 | 1/1/25 – 12/31/25 | No |
| Ambit Energy 877-282-6248 | 12.00 | 12 Months | No |
| 12.75 | Ultimate Perks 12 | ||
| 18.00 | Winter Break 12 | ||
| 18.00 | Winter Break 24 | ||
| C.N. Brown Electricity 207-739-6444 | 10.61 | 10 Months | No |
| 11.61 (100% Green) | 10 Months GreenChoice | ||
| 10.00 | 9 Months March Start | ||
| 11.00 (100% Green) | 9 Months GreenChoice March Start | ||
| Clearview Energy 800-746-4702 | 16.49 | 6 Months | No |
| 16.29 | 12 Months | ||
| 15.69 | 24 Months | ||
| Electricity Maine 866-573-2674 | 13.99 | 12 Months | No |
| 14.49 (100% Green) | 12 Months GreenChoice | ||
| Major Energy 888-625-6760 | 12.49 | 15 Months | No |
| 12.69 | 23 Months | ||
| North American Power 877-572-9965 | 11.59 | 6 Months | No |
| 12.89 | 14 Months | ||
| SmartEnergy 800-913-9499 | 14.50 (100% Green) | 12 Months GreenChoice | No |
| Think Energy 888-923-3633 | 10.60 | 8 Months | No |
| 12.90 (100% Green) | 12 Months GreenChoice | No | |
| 12.90 (100% Green) | 36 Months GreenChoice | No | |
| Town Square Energy 877-430-0093 | 16.47 | 12 Months | No |
| XOOM Energy 888-997-8979 | 11.99 | 12 Months | No |
| 12.49 | 24 Months | No | |
| 17.19 (50% Green) | Variable |
Versant (Bangor Hydro)* Customers
| Competitive Electricity Provider | Rate for Versant (Bangor Hydro) Customers (¢/kWh) | Fixed Rate Term | Early Termination Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Residential and Small Commercial Standard Offer(PUC) | 10.563 | 1/1/25 – 12/31/25 | No |
| Ambit Energy 877-282-6248 | 12.00 | 12 Months | No |
| 12.75 | Ultimate Perks 12 | ||
| 18.00 | Winter Break 12 | ||
| 18.00 | Winter Break 24 | ||
| C.N. Brown Electricity 207-739-6444 | 10.61 | 10 Months | No |
| 11.61 | 10 Months GreenChoice | ||
| 10.00 | 9 Months March Start | ||
| 11.00 (100% Green) | 9 Months GreenChoice March Start | ||
| Clearview Energy 800-746-4702 | 13.09 | 6 Months | No |
| 13.09 | 12 Months | ||
| 12.69 | 24 Months | ||
| Electricity Maine 866-573-2674 | 15.49 | 12 Months | No |
| 15.75 (100% Green) | 12 Months GreenChoice | ||
| Major Energy 888-625-6760 | 12.55 | 15 Months | No |
| 12.75 | 23 Months | ||
| North American Power 877-572-9965 | 11.59 | 6 Months | No |
| 12.89 | 14 Months | ||
| SmartEnergy 800-915-2934 | 13.00 (100% Green) | 12 Months GreenChoice | No |
| Think Energy 888-923-3633 | 10.60 | 8 Months | No |
| 12.90 (100% Green) | 12 Months GreenChoice | No | |
| 12.90 (100% Green) | 36 Months GreenChoice | No | |
| Town Square Energy 877-430-0093 | 16.47 | 12 Months | No |
| XOOM Energy 888-997-8979 | 11.99 | 12 Months | No |
| 12.49 | 24 Months | No | |
| 16.49 (50% Green) | Variable |
Important Considerations Before You Sign Up
Before you choose a Competitive Electricity Provider, keep these important points in mind:
- Rate Verification is Key: The rates listed in the tables are from February 1, 2025, and are subject to change. Always verify the current rates directly on the CEP’s website or by calling them.
- Read the Fine Print: Carefully examine the terms and conditions of any contract before you sign up. Understand the contract length, renewal terms, and any other clauses.
- Contract End Date Awareness: Mark your contract end date on your calendar. CEPs may automatically extend your contract, potentially at a higher or variable rate, if you don’t take action. To avoid this, contact your supplier before your contract ends to either renew your contract or request to be switched back to the Standard Offer.
- Renewable Energy Claims: If a plan is advertised as having a percentage of renewable energy, remember that the Maine Office of the Public Advocate (OPA) cannot independently verify the source or type of renewable energy beyond the state’s minimum requirements.
Making the Right Choice for Your Electricity Supply
Comparing electricity suppliers in Maine empowers you to potentially lower your electricity costs or choose a plan that aligns with your environmental values. By understanding your options, comparing rates and terms, and staying informed, you can make the best decision for your household’s electricity needs. Remember to visit the websites of the Competitive Electricity Providers listed and the Maine PUC for more information and to ensure you have the most up-to-date details before making your choice.
