Four Free Ways Customers Can Take Control of Energy Costs with Warm Week Ahead

With temperatures in the 80s expected for several days, CMP highlights ways to save on energy usage. 

 

Augusta, ME – August 10, 2026 – With daily highs in the 80s forecasted for the next several days in many Maine communities, Central Maine Power (CMP), a subsidiary Avangrid Inc., is encouraging customers to take advantage of free programs and resources designed to help them manage their energy use and identify opportunities to save on energy bills. 

 

1.) Sign Up for Usage Alerts
Customers can receive personalized updates by text, phone, or email through their online CMP account. Alerts can provide weekly usage summaries and estimated costs. Customers can set personalized usage targets and receive notifications when they exceed them.

 

2.) Use Energy Manager
CMP's free Energy Manager tool provides detailed insight into household energy use. Customers can view how much energy they are using by month, day, or hour, compare usage with similar homes, and see estimated energy use by categories such as heating, cooling, lighting, and appliances.

 

3.) Attend a Community Connection Event
Throughout the year, CMP hosts Community Connection Events across Maine where customers can meet one-on-one with customer service representatives. These events provide an opportunity to ask questions, discuss billing concerns, receive personalized assistance, and learn about available programs.

 

4.) Explore Residential Delivery Rate Options
CMP offers several delivery rate options that may help customers lower costs depending on when and how they use electricity. Customers interested in learning whether another rate may be a better fit for their household can find information, tools, and rate calculators on CMP's website.

 

Currently, CMP costs represent less than half of electric bills. More than half of electric bills for CMP customers are comprised of unregulated supply costs and public policy costs. CMP continues to focus on providing customers with practical tools and information to help them make energy decisions that fit their needs and budgets.

 

"This type of weather can prompt customers to run cooling systems, including fans and air conditioners, at higher settings and for longer durations, increasing their energy use,” said CMP Spokesperson, Dustin Wlodkowski. “By understanding your energy use as it happens, you can take advantage of tools that help you manage usage, avoid unexpected bills, and potentially save money. The more information you have on when you might see higher use and why, the more control you can have over your energy costs."


In addition, to help improve efficiency and reduce costs, below are other actions customers can take: 

  • Clean or replace air filters regularly to improve airflow and efficiency.
  • Clean vents annually to improve system performance.
  • Check for insulation gaps and seal air leaks to keep cool air inside.
  • Close curtains, blinds, or shades during the hottest parts of the day.
  • Be mindful that additional household activity during summer months may increase energy use.
  • For heat pumps, maintain a consistent temperature rather than frequently adjusting settings.

CMP understands that higher summer bills can be challenging. Programs may be available to assist eligible customers, including: 

  • The Electricity Lifeline Program
  • The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)
  • Home Weatherization programs through Efficiency Maine Trust

Customers are encouraged to visit CMP’s Help with Bill page to learn more about available assistance programs.