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Heat Pumps and Heat Pump Hot Water Heaters


Versant Power customers who use heat pumps and/or heat pump hot water heaters may be eligible for a lower electric heat delivery rate during the heating season.

Versant Power is has expanded certain rates and created new rates to offer savings for customers using electric vehicles, energy storage, heat pumps and heat pump water heaters.

As a result of An Act to Advance Energy Storage in Maine, the Maine Public Utilities Commission approved agreements on Sept. 27, 2022 to implement rates to encourage efficient adoption of electric vehicles, energy storage, heat pumps and heat pump water heaters.

The new and/or expanded rates will encourage electricity use during periods of lower demand and aim to help customers save money.

We have announced the following rates as of November 2022:

Home Heating Eco Rate (Maine Public District and Bangor Hydro District)

  • This is available for homes using electric heat and/or a heat pump water heater.
  • To be eligible for this rate, 50% of your electricity use must be attributable to use of a heat pump and/or heat pump water heater.
  • This is the same as residential space heating service rate but now adds heat pump water heaters.

Business Heating Eco Rate – (Bangor Hydro District)

  • This is for businesses using electric heat and/or heat pump water heater(s).
  • Customers will have a second meter option. They have to pay for the meter installation, but do not pay a separate minimum monthly charge.
  • To be eligible for this rate, 50% of your electricity use must be attributable to use of a heat pump and/or heat pump water heater.
  • This is the same as the commercial space heating service rate.

A new rate was announced as of June 2023:

Business Heating Eco Rate – (Maine Public District)

  • This is for businesses using electric heat and/or heat pump water heater(s).
  • Customers will have a second meter option. They have to pay for the meter installation, but do not pay a separate minimum monthly charge.
  • To be eligible for this rate, 50% of your electricity use must be attributable to use of a heat pump and/or heat pump water heater.
  • This is the same as the commercial space heating service rate.

Versant Power has also been undertaking an advanced meter infrastructure (AMI) project and additional rates will be available upon its completion.

See our Residential Rates page and contact us for more information or to sign up.

Considering a heat pump?

Many Maine residents who use heat pumps may tell you they are a clean, comfortable and convenient choice for your home heating and cooling needs. Choosing a heat pump can help you save money while using less energy and decreasing your carbon footprint due to reduced greenhouse gas emissions. Heat pumps also offer a remarkably quiet way to keep your home comfortable and use filtration systems that can improve interior air quality.

For information about rebates and loans available for Maine residents who purchase and install high-efficiency cold climate heat pumps, visit Efficiency Maine's website. You can also find a list of dealers and installers.

Already own a heat pump?

To get the most out of your heat pump, you just need to determine the setting that feels most comfortable to you. Resist the temptation to turn it down at night or when you're away. Studies have suggested that users save money when the unit is kept at a constant temperature and therefore can run evenly and at maximum efficiency.

Spend some time experimenting with your heat pump's thermostat to find out what temperature works best. Here's a hint: It may be a higher number than you are accustomed to seeing on your thermostat — as high as 74 or 76 F. Because of the heat pump's efficiency, it's affordable to be comfortable.

Once you find the right temperature for your heat pump thermostat setting, it's best to set it and forget it. Next, set your older heating system's thermostat at a temperature below what you are using for your heat pump. This will ensure the other heating system is only used as a backup to your energy-efficient heat pump.

To maximize the benefits of your heat pump and ensure it runs smoothly, follow manufacturer instructions to keep the dust filters and any allergen cartridges in your heat pump clean. Make sure to keep your outdoor unit clear of debris and ice buildup to maintain proper air flow.

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Maine Public Service District Bangor Hydro District
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Versant Power provides electric delivery service to two areas – the Bangor Hydro District and the Maine Public District.

            The Bangor Hydro District includes Hancock, Piscataquis and Washington Counties and most of Penobscot County.
            The Maine Public District serves Aroostook County and a small piece of Penobscot County.

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