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Energy Bill Insights<\/strong><\/h1>\n

Electricity Maine is committed to providing thoughtful customer service and predictable fixed plans for customers that value transparency. As your trusted energy partner we provide resourceful information that helps customers make informed utility decisions. Most customers are painfully aware of the record-breaking energy prices of Summer 2022. Winter 2022 saw similar volatility.<\/p>\n

You may be wondering: How can we manage our usage better? Who controls the price? Why is it increasing, and can we ever expect relief?<\/p>\n

How usage effects energy bills<\/strong><\/h2>\n

\u2013 Household size and time spent at home<\/strong><\/p>\n

Spending more time at home, welcoming a new roommate or an increase in guests during the holidays will most likely affect your household energy usage. Take the opportunity to plan events outdoors and try to remember to conserve, when possible, indoors. Simple things like using natural light, energy-efficient appliances, remembering to\u00a0turn off the lights<\/strong>\u00a0when leaving a room or selecting to cookout on the grill can drastically impact your energy bills.<\/p>\n

\u2013 Freezing cold winters. Scorching hot summers.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Extreme temperatures have often resulted in increased energy usage. Air conditioning units and heating units see large increases in use depending on the season\/weather conditions. Climate control may account for up to 25% of household energy costs. Use your ceiling and standing fans to reduce consumption.<\/p>\n

\u2013 Energy vampires and idle appliances<\/strong><\/p>\n

Identify areas of waste. Electricity Maine customers can drastically reduce bills by eliminating waste.\u00a0\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

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• Use a smart thermostat to regulate air-condition settings<\/li>\n
• Unplug<\/u><\/strong>\u00a0idle appliances and electronics<\/strong>\u00a0(televisions, microwaves, computers, printers etc.) or set them to \u201chibernate\u201d mode<\/li>\n
• Swap inefficient light bulbs for longer-lasting, more efficient\u00a0LED bulbs<\/strong><\/li>\n
• Ensure adequate insulation in the attic.<\/li>\n
• Adjust hot water temperature settings that are too high.<\/li>\n
• Conserve hot water use and regulate pressure.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
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  Who controls the price?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

  While wholesale energy prices are set by free market dynamics, retail prices \u2013 what you pay, are set by suppliers competing for your business.\u00a0 During this period of high inflation, make sure your current plan works for you and your household.<\/p>\n

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  • Consider your current rate, are you eligible for a fixed\u00a0option<\/a>?<\/strong><\/li>\n
  • What term length works best for your energy use and budget?<\/li>\n
  • Does Electricity Maine offer a plan that protects above-average energy users?<\/li>\n
  • Are you moving soon? A short-term plan might be best.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n
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