A knock at the door promising lower electric rates or community solar savings may sound appealing to Maine residents trying to cut costs. But Versant Power says customers should not take those pitches as proof that the seller is connected to the utility, as WAGM reported.
Before handing over a bill, account information or a signature during one of those visits, customers should take a step back.
Here's what to know
Emily Tadlock, a communications specialist for Versant Power, told the station that the company does not send employees house-to-house. She said anyone making that claim should immediately raise concern.
"That is not our team," Tadlock declared to WAGM. "That is not Versant Power,"
She elaborated that the presence of an outside sales offer does not, by itself, mean a scam is underway. It could be community solar, or something less nefarious. Still, she told the station that those businesses are not part of Versant Power, even though their sales materials indicate otherwise.
Tadlock said customers can verify whether they already use a competitive supplier by checking the supply portion of their electric bill, per WAGM. Community solar participation appears separately under net energy billing. That can help customers avoid duplicate signups or accidental changes.
The temptation to jump at an appealing offer is understandable. For homeowners who do want lower long-term energy costs, going solar is one of the best ways to save money on home energy. It may be worth exploring EnergySage to get free solar installation estimates and compare quotes before signing anything.
More background
The warning reflects the fact that utilities and suppliers serve different functions. WAGM noted Versant manages the infrastructure that delivers electricity to homes and businesses, while the electricity itself may come from the standard offer or from a separate competitive supplier.
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So while a pitch for community solar or a new electricity supplier may come from a legitimate company, the station said it should not be mistaken for a Versant program.
Community solar and rooftop solar can both help lower energy costs, but only if customers can review rates, fees, contract terms, and cancellation rules.
What can be done?
One safeguard is to avoid turning over a bill, account number, or signature until you have reviewed the terms closely and confirmed who is making the offer, Tadlock suggested to WAGM.
She said Versant's customer service center can help customers check whether a person actually represents the utility, and the station reported that leaving a third-party program may require contacting that provider directly.
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EnergySage offers free tools to help you shop smarter. Homeowners can compare solar quotes and installation estimates without relying on a single sales pitch. With EnergySage's help, the average person can save up to $10,000 on solar purchases and installations.
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