Maine

In Maine, the Energy Choice Program was implemented to empower commercial consumers to find the most suitable energy rates by selecting their own energy provider or supplier. At All In Power, we specialize in assisting medium to large-scale businesses with their commercial energy requirements.

Commercial energy sources refer to the energy used for generating electricity and are available for sale in the marketplace at specific prices. These sources typically include electricity, coal, natural gas, and advanced petroleum products. The price of commercial energy is influenced by factors such as supply and demand, fuel costs, and government regulations.

The deregulation of electricity markets began in several states, including Maine, during the late 1990s. Energy deregulation aims to restructure the energy market, promoting competition and preventing monopolies. This movement enables energy consumers to choose from multiple energy providers or suppliers based on their rates and specialized product offerings. Unfortunately, many consumers in deregulated states have not explored switching energy providers and, as a result, may be overpaying for their energy services.

A customer’s energy bill consists of two components: the “delivery cost,” which includes the utility’s profit and operational expenses, and the “supply cost,” which is the deregulated portion. The supply cost encompasses the generation and transmission costs, determining the source of the power. The utility company does not profit from this part of the bill, which means they have no incentive to seek better pricing for the customer.

Without an energy supplier, customers will pay variable rates to the utility, which often fluctuate and tend to be higher. Utilities purchase power from the open market at specific times, and the customer pays whatever price the utility pays. However, energy suppliers, not bound by the same regulations, can access the open market at any time and purchase power in bulk, allowing them to set the price and provide a specific rate guarantee.

Choosing an energy supplier does not affect the customer’s service or billing process. The utility company remains responsible for the poles and wires that deliver electricity, as well as customer billing and service-related issues, including power outages. The only noticeable change for the customer is that the energy supplier’s name will be printed on their bill, along with the set price for their energy usage.

The positive aspect of deregulation is that it provides an opportunity for customers to explore competitive options and potentially secure better energy rates. By taking advantage of Maine’s Energy Choice Program, consumers can exercise their power to choose the most suitable energy supplier for their needs.

We work to connect you with the right supplier for your business that offers the best price and service.