Advanced Metering Opt-Out

Versant Power is replacing metering equipment for all residential and small commercial customers.

Advanced Meters enable two-way communication between the meter and Versant Power using a radio frequency (RF) wireless network. This allows Versant Power to collect customer energy usage information more easily and accurately and respond to outages more quickly. Meters use very low-level radio frequency signals, the same form of wireless technology used by cellphones, WiFi networks and televisions.

Non-Communicating Meters will be installed for customers who choose to opt out. To keep opt-out costs as low as possible, the Maine Public Utilities Commission requires Versant Power to visit your premises to read your non-communicating meter every other month and estimate your electricity use during months when we don’t read your meter. We won’t be able to remotely detect if you are experiencing a power outage or any other problem, so if your power goes out, you must call us or report it online.

Opting out will result in a one-time fee and recurring monthly charges. Opting out also will result in a loss of enhanced benefits from Advanced Meters. If you choose to opt out, Versant Power still will need to replace your existing meter with a non-communicating meter.

Eligibility to opt out

1. You must be a residential or small commercial customer. Medium-class customers are not eligible.
   
2. You are responsible for providing and maintaining unrestricted access to Versant Power for meter installation, maintenance and reading. You must maintain 4 feet of clearance in front of the meter base.

Steps to opt out

1. Read and agree to the Terms and Conditions.
   
2. Submit the opt out form. Please note that incomplete applications may delay processing.
   
3. Your one-time fee will be added to your account.
   
4. Once Versant Power receives and processes your completed application, we will proceed with installing your non-communicating meter.
   

Terms and Conditions

I represent and warrant that I am the named, authorized person on the account number provided. I further represent and warrant that I am either the legal owner of the premises or a tenant at the premises who has obtained permission from the owner as indicated below.

By signing the form, I am indicating that I want to opt-out of having an advanced meter that communicates directly with Versant Power on my premises. By signing the form, I acknowledge that a non-communicating meter will be installed at the premises listed on this form in lieu of an advanced meter that communicates directly with the utility.

I understand that in accordance with Versant Power’s Tariffs and Rules, Rates and Regulations, my account will be assessed a one-time fee of $23.82 ($11.91 for LIAP participants). I also understand that on an ongoing basis, my account will be assessed a monthly charge of $11.45 ($5.73 for LIAP participants), in addition to regular monthly charges, for each billing cycle once the non-communicating meter has been installed. I will also be responsible for a charge of $23.82 if my service is terminated or reconnected, in addition to regular establishment, connection and/or disconnection fees.

I understand that by opting out of the Advanced Metering Infrastructure Program, I may not be able to receive the enhanced benefits that the advanced system provides, such as:

• Timely, detailed information about my energy use
  
• Outage and power issue detection
  
• Remote disconnection and reconnection technology
  

I understand that my non-communicating meter will still be collecting the same data as a communicating meter, although it will not be received by Versant Power until after the in-person meter reads. 

I agree that I will maintain clear, safe and direct access to my meter(s), to allow personnel the ability to manually read the meter(s).