There are a consumer protection provisions in state law (Title 35-A MRSA § 3203) and in Commission rules (Ch. 305) regarding Competitive Electricity Providers (CEPs). These include the following:
- A CEP may not terminate service without providing a minimum of 30 days' notice.
- A CEP must offer a minimum of 30 days service.
- A CEP must have a verification of a customer's affirmative choice to obtain service with the company (no "slamming").
- A customer has five calendar days after receipt of the first bill to rescind his or her initial selection of CEP service.
- A CEP may not use unfair or deceptive business practices.
- A CEP may not release private customer information to anyone, unless allowed by law, or by the customer's consent.
- A customer may file a complaint with the Commission if a CEP has used "slamming" practices to obtain customers.
- If a CEP drops a customer, or if the customer seeks to be dropped and makes no other choice, the customer will automatically go back on Standard Offer service.
- A CEP must notify a customer two times between 30 and 60 days in advance of a contract renewal.
How to File a Complaint
Although the Maine Public Utilities Commission (MPUC) cannot regulate the price of the electricity offered by competitive electricity providers, it has the authority to investigate matters relating to service offered by CEPs. Depending on the offending actions of a CEP, the Commission may revoke a CEP's license, issue cease and desist orders, order restitution and levy administrative fines.
If you have an issue with your CEP, contact the MPUC's Consumer Assistance Hotline at 1-800-452-4699, Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.