Question 1

How many solar projects does MCPC have?

Accepted Answer

Our first two Harrison projects launched in January 2026, powering 100 Maine households. We are working to develop additional projects throughout Maine.

Question 2

How does billing work?

Accepted Answer

You will receive a bill from PowerMarket for your solar credits. This bill will look different than your old MCPC bills. You will be charged for the solar credits you receive at a discount of 10%, 15%, or 20%. You'll also receive a fixed discount which includes a portion of the cost of the CMP service charge and the first 50 kWh supply charge. This fixed discount ensures that you actually save 10%, 15%, or 20% off of the cost of a full-price CMP bill. You can also see what your PowerMarket dashboard will look like here.Check out these articles to learn more: How MCPC Bills Work With PowerMarket
Understanding Your Bill: MCPC Fixed Credit AllocationUnderstanding Your Costs: Alternative Delivery Rates and Community SolarUnderstanding Your Costs: LIHEAP/LIAP and Community SolarConsumer Protections for Community Solar Customers in Maine

Question 3

Can I sign up for autopay with PowerMarket and CMP?

Accepted Answer

Yes! You can sign up for autopay with PowerMarket for the cost of your solar credits, and CMP autopay for your utility bill (fixed delivery charges, any extra electricity charges, and utility fees).

Question 4

Do I need to create a PowerMarket account?

Accepted Answer

No. When you are assigned to an MCPC solar project, PowerMarket will create an account for you and send an activation email to log in and manage your account. You do not need to sign up separately on the PowerMarket website.

Question 5

If I used to have a PowerMarket subscription, do I have to create a new PowerMarket account?

Accepted Answer

No. When you are assigned to an MCPC solar project, PowerMarket will update your old PowerMarket account. You’ll use the same PowerMarket account to manage your MCPC community solar subscription.

Question 6

What if I don't want to switch from MCPC billing to PowerMarket?

Accepted Answer

If you do not want to make the switch, that’s ok. Just let us know by emailing support@mainecommunitypower.com. We’ll cancel your MCPC membership and refund your membership share.

Question 7

How does the waitlist work?

Accepted Answer

If you are on the waitlist, no action is needed at this time. We’ll let you know when a spot opens up and when to cancel your existing subscription.

Question 8

Who can I contact if I have questions about my bill?

Accepted Answer

You can reach out to PowerMarket customer support with any questions related to billing. The MCPC team will still be around to answer any questions about the cooperative and your membership.

Question 9

How is my allocation size determined?

Accepted Answer

PowerMarket will monitor your usage every month and adjust your allocation percentage regularly to ensure that the credits you receive match your electricity usage over the course of the year. Check out this article to learn more about the fixed allocation model: Understanding Your Bill: MCPC Fixed Credit Allocation.

Question 10

How does this program work if I am subscribed to an alternative delivery rate (Electric Technology or TOU)?

Accepted Answer

If you are on an alternative delivery rate, your community solar savings may be lower than expected, or you may not save at all.
Time of Use Rate: If your on-peak electricity usage is under 5%, subscribing to community solar could actually increase your overall costs. If your on-peak usage is above 5%, you will still see savings, though your exact amount depends entirely on how much on-peak power you use.
Electric Technology Rate: You will save less than our advertised 10%, 15%, or 20% discounts.
 Read this article for more information on how these rates work with community solar: Understanding Your Costs: Alternative Delivery Rates and Community Solar.

Question 11

Can I subscribe to MCPC community solar if I'm enrolled in CMP's SimplePay program?

Accepted Answer

No. You should not subscribe to our community solar program, or any other, if you are enrolled in the CMP SimplePay program. Subscribing to a community solar program while still enrolled in CMP’s SimplePay program may significantly increase your electricity costs.

Question 12

Can I subscribe to MCPC community solar if I receive LIHEAP/LIAP benefits?

Accepted Answer

If you receive close to or more than $350/year in LIHEAP/LIAP benefits, you should not subscribe to a community solar program as it may increase your electricity costs. If you receive a lower benefit amount (e.g., less than $200/year) you can still save on your electricity costs. You can read this article to learn more: Understanding Your Costs: LIHEAP/LIAP and Community Solar.

Question 13

Will I have to pay for unused banked credits that are set to expire?

Accepted Answer

No, you will never pay for credits that you do not use. You are only billed for solar credits when they are applied to your utility bill to offset your electricity usage.

Question 14

If I expect a significant change in my electricity usage, what should I do?

Accepted Answer

If you anticipate a significant change in your electricity usage (like buying an electric vehicle or installing heat pumps) you can notify PowerMarket customer support in advance to ensure your allocation percentage is adjusted promptly.

Frequently asked questions