Maine Residential Electric Rates
The State of Maine began consideration of electric deregulation in 1995, but it wasn’t until 2001 that the energy marketplace really opened. What that meant in practice for Mainers was that they were free to switch their electricity supply from a state utility company to a competitive retailer. The main driver is, of course, the price – the average residential electric rate in Maine is 16.79 cents per kilowatt-hour, as opposed to the national U.S. average of 12.79 cents per kilowatt-hour.
Currently, residential and commercial customers of two power utilities are able to shop for electricity rates – CMP and Emera Maine – covering approximately 60% of the territory. If you decide to switch, these utility companies will still be responsible for safely delivering electricity to your home. However, when it comes to the electric rate – you have the freedom to choose.
Compare Electricity Rates in Maine
The Maine Public Utility Commission tries to empower the residents to use the electric choice. It publishes a list of licensed electric suppliers in the state, but currently, there is no official state resource for the Mainers to compare the available rates and make the switch.
That’s why we are here. On our website, you can compare rates in Maine by simply entering your zip code. We carefully review all retail suppliers to also include information about customer service contact details, bill payment options, and little extras that they offer to customers.
Utility Companies in Maine
Each of the utilities has to publish its residential Price to Compare or standard offer – the electricity rate for the supply portion of your bill. You can then compare this rate with other competitive energy plans, offered by alternative electricity suppliers.
Central Maine Power
This utility company serves more than 620,000 electricity customers in an 11,000-square-mile service area in central and southern parts of the state.
- Customer service number: 1-800-456-5153
- Current standard electricity rate: 11.82 ¢ / kWh
Emera Maine
The power company service territory spans 10,400 square miles in two service districts – the Bangor Hydro District and the Maine Public District.
- Customer service number: 1-207-973-2000
Energy Plans & Products in Maine
Energy plans are like shoes. One size does not fit all. Navigating through complex information about electric rates can be confusing and can ultimately deter you from shopping for a better deal. Below is all you need to know about the different energy products that energy companies offer to Maine residents:
| Plan | Description | What's Good? | What's Bad? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Green / Renewable Energy | On this plan, your supplier will match the energy you consume by buying an equal amount from renewable generators |
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| Variable Rate | Your per-unit gas and electricity costs can vary at the discretion of your supplier |
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| Fixed Rate | Your unit price for gas and electricity will remain the same for the duration of the plan |
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| Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) | By purchasing 1 REC, you purchase the environmental benefits of 1MWh of renewable energy generation | Reputational gains and compliance targets for businesses with a mandated renewable obligation | There are no real downsides -RECs are fairly cheap and the system is secured and tightly monitored. |
Alternative Energy Options in Maine
Maine has tremendous potential when it comes to green power. In 2018, about three-fourths of the state electricity net generation came from renewable sources. With such a high share of green power – Mainers have not one but a few options to green up their energy usage:
 | Maine Green Power - The Public Utility Commission plays a key role in promoting the adoption of renewable energy - its official Maine Green Power program allows you to sign up a portion of your bill to purchasing Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs). These certificates are proof that energy was generated from renewable resources, such as wind, hydro and biomass and can be used to offset your carbon footprint. |
 | Choose a green energy plan - In 2019, the state governor signed in a bill, mandating that 80% of the energy generated in Maine will come from renewable sources by 2030. Power suppliers had to comply and as a result, Mainers are now able to switch to partially or fully green energy plans with competitive prices. |
 | Community solar projects - Anyone who pays an energy bill in Maine (businesses or homeowners) can be a part of a community solar project. These projects leverage economies of scale and state incentives to give more people access to cleaner, cheaper energy without the upfront investment costs. |
FAQs
Below are answers to some of the questions you might have about Maine electricity rates:
How much does electricity cost in Maine?
According to the Energy Information Administration (EIA), the Maine average residential electric rate is 16.79 cents per kilowatt-hour; a steep increase compared to the national U.S. average of 12.79 cents per kilowatt-hour. However, approximately 60% of residents are able to switch electric suppliers and lower the supply portion of their electric bill.
How much does CMP charge per kWh?
State utility companies are required to publish information about how much they charge customers for a kilowatt of energy to promote transparency. Based on the state government website, Central Maine Power’s current standard rate is 9 ¢ / kWh.
How many power companies are in Maine?
It can be confusing to try to find a reliable trustworthy supplier. That’s why the Maine Public Utility Commission maintains the Licensed Retail Electricity Providers along with contact details. However, that alone will not give you an idea about whom to switch to. You can consult our website for information on suppliers’ rates, customer perks, reviews, and prices.
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