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1. What is the demand charge on my bill?

All utilities in Massachusetts charge separately for the level of electric use called demand. A simple analogy - if your overall use of electricity (the total amount you use over time) is equivalent to the miles you travel in a car, then your demand level is equivalent to the speed you are traveling.

Our Demand meters record the highest level reached each month. The demand charge recovers the cost of having a dedicated supply of energy output on demand - whether we use it or not; a type of overhead cost. If a business operates all of its equipment for just part of the day but then doesn't use them for the rest of the day, the owner may find that, while the quantity of energy used may be low, the charge for peak demand drives up the overall bill. A business that cycles some of its equipment on while others are off throughout the day will effectively keep its peak demand lower and enjoy a lower bill.

2. What information do I need to know & to give you in order to open a new account?

Your first call should be to our Electric Division 508-947-3023 and, if needed, Gas Division 508-947-1535 to be sure the service at this location is right for your business needs. They'll ask about the size of the line service and gas main you need and basic information about your building size and equipment, including HVAC. Fill in this form to have all the information ready. This information also will determine the proper rate for your account. Review our Commercial Rates to see the charges applied for your monthly usage. (Purchased Power and Purchased Natural Gas charges are expressed separately and are variable.) You'll then contact our administrative office to open the account. We'll need a contact person with identification to apply to the account record. Fill in the New Commercial Account application online if you like.

3. Can I pay by credit card?

Commercial account balances may be paid online or over the phone by credit card up to a limit of $5,000. Go to our Pay Online service to begin this process.

4. When will I receive my monthly bill?

This is a function of your location. Our bills are produced and mailed based on a reading "route". Ask us directly and we can tell you right away.

5. How can I take advantage of the prompt payment discount?

Just be sure that we receive your payment by the Prompt Payment Discount Date listed on the bill. This is generally 10 days from the billing date. If your office collects bills to be paid on a specific date of the month or you use an outside service or banking program, you may want to pay this bill separately to be sure to get your discount. The larger the use, the more significant the discount! You can also consider direct payment (electronic payment) set up through our online bill payment program.

6. Why can’t MGED refund taxes collected when I should have been tax exempt?

MGED is only the pass-through agent, taking payment and sending the tax payment directly to the state revenue service. You would need to contact the Massachusetts Department of Revenue for refund. This is why it is so important to declare your tax exempt status and keep this up to date on an annual basis. Taxes must be collected from any business who has not filed for this status. There is no retro-active action allowed. Check with your tax accountant for more information.

7. How do I change the name of my business on my account?

To change any information about your existing business account, contact us and we'll let you know if we need another application for the new information. A new business name will likely need new identification confirmation. Also, no business will be able to change identification until all balances owed under the current name have been paid.

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1. What is Community Solar?

Shared solar supply, also known as Community Solar, is a solar panel system which supplies electric power and is shared by more than one household/business. For a more detailed explanation see: Community solar: What is it?  or Community and Shared Solar.

2. Can anyone sign up for Solar Community?

All MGED customers that are in good standing are eligible to participate in the Community Solar Program.  The maximum number of participants is 340

and the program is full.  However, spots do open up and we are currently accepting waitlist applications: https://www.mged.com/322/MGED-Solar-Community-Project-2-Waitlist

3. How will Solar Community appear on my bill?

Credits associated with each Solar Community Project you participate in will be listed as a separate line item as one consolidated amount on your bill. 

4. What is the difference between MGED’s Solar Community and the solar Net Metering rate?

The solar Net Metering rate is for customers who choose to purchase, install and operate solar generation equipment on their own property, limited to a 25 kilowatt AC size.

The Solar Community Program is a community shared solar program for customers who opt to share the benefits/risks of a large solar array installed within the MGED service territory without incurring the capital cost of installation.

These programs are independent from each other. MGED customers are welcome to participate in both programs.

5. What’s the advantage to buying into shared solar instead of installing my own?

It's far less expensive and doesn't require a large space or roof. MGED Solar Community projects are designed to provide an opportunity to share in the benefits of locally produced power from a solar array without a major investment. It will give participants the chance to see for themselves how this power affects their bill and compares to the cost of our typical energy supplies. And if you want to install or lease your own solar array, you can do that too.

6. Where are the solar arrays located?

Solar array(s) for the Solar Community program will be installed at commercial/municipal locations within MGED's service territory. Current solar arrays projects completed or in the process are:

• Solar Community Project 1: Everett Street Storage, Middleborough, MA
• Solar Community Project 2: Crooked Lane, Lakeville, MA

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1. Could you Drive Electric?

Considering an Electric Vehicle in your future? Find out why EV Drivers are so enthusiastic!

2. Not your Grandpa's Heat Pumps! Are they in your Future?

Everybody's starting to go for mini splits? How about you? Learn how MGED rebates and Abode expert guidance can help you make the transition.

3. Can You Put Solar Power to Work for You?

Busting myths and learn from actual experience about installing a Solar Array on your home.

4. What about a battery?

So many new tools and appliances are going cordless. We've got the specs on mowers, vacuums, and even backup generators. We'll share the latest evolution.

5. Using Calculators to make good decisions.

Considering driving electric? Wanting to add a Mini-split?  Thinking about the cost of a battery backup? We’ve found the best online calculators that can do the math for you so you’ll choose wisely when the time this right.

And more to come...

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1. Why do your trucks and people keep going by but nothing is happening?

Crews may come and then leave your area before power is restored for several reasons:

• Crews may be repairing several locations, on other roads, before power can be restored on the full section serving you.
• Crews may begin work along your road but need to complete the work on other roads before lines can be energized.
• In some cases, you may see our crews in uniform driving other vehicles. They are out in the field to assess the damage so we can assign an appropriately skilled repair crew.

2. Why haven’t I seen any MGED trucks?

Our restoration efforts can involve damage reports from locations throughout 101 square miles. You may see trucks and crews we have brought in from other towns to help. Most probably, the cause of your power outage could be a distance away from you and that’s where we are. Even if you don’t see a MGED truck on your street, we will be out there working to get power restored to every customer who has been affected.

3. Why are my neighbors on and I’m not?

It’s possible for neighbors to be served by different circuits. Circuits don’t necessarily align with streets, neighborhoods, or community boundaries. There may be damage to the service line between your home and the rest of your neighborhood and even damage to your own service cable. Call us at 508-947-1371 to let us know if you are still without power.

4. What should I do about the wire laying in my driveway / street?

Consider all downed lines are energized and call MGED at 508-947-1371.

During an outage, where a downed wire is reported, a hazard responder (not a repair crew) shows up first to assess the situation. Once public safety is assured, the hazard responder moves on to the next reported location. Only then does the line crew come to fix the problem. This may take some time. If you are concerned that the wire is endangering your safety, call us at 508-947-1371.

5. When will you know how long I might be without power?

First, we need to fully assess the damage to 101 square miles of the service area. It is impossible to accurately predict restorations of specific circuits serving particular residences because of the many challenges and hazards that may be hidden within tree-damaged areas. We attempt to give updates on our efforts at least twice each day so that residents can gauge our progress. We will always communicate as much information as we possibly can on our website, in the media, and with individual calls to customers.

6. Why did my power come back on, then go off again a few minutes later?

Sometimes, after a line is repaired in one location, other damage causes the line to go out again. At other times, it may be necessary to turn off your power once more to safely repair other problems. In any case, our crews work to restore your power again as soon as safely possible. If your power comes back on, then goes off again, please let us know by calling our outage line at 508-947-1371.

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1. How do I change the name on my bill?

If your name has changed and you are the original customer-of-record on your bill, simply visit our office with your identification and sign for service under this new name. You may also apply by emailing our office or faxing us (508-946-3700) a completed Residential Customer Registration Form (PDF); be sure to also include a copy of your driver’s license. If you are transferring the account to a new person, you will need to close your account, requesting a final reading for a final bill that you are responsible for paying. The new customer-of-record will need to sign for service prior to our final reading so that service can be seamlessly transferred to their new account.

2. Can I sign up for service online?

Yes, you can. We would love to see you and welcome you to the community but if you can’t make it into our administrative office, please sign up for a new account using the Residential Customer Registration Form (PDF).

3. Can Middleborough Gas and Electric Department recommend a contractor who can service my gas appliances?

As a municipal utility, we can’t recommend any contractor but you can read our Natural Gas Appliance Repair Services List (PDF) which details known licensed plumbing contractors doing business in the area. This list is provided as a convenience to help with your search. Middleborough Gas and Electric Department makes no representations or warranties regarding the qualifications or quality of workmanship of any of these contractors, nor is the listing to be considered an endorsement of any such contractor.

4. Can I call Middleborough Gas and Electric Department when my gas appliance isn't working?

Emergencies

You should call Middleborough Gas and Electric Department gas division staff at 508-947-1535 for natural gas emergencies, such as a natural gas odor of rotten eggs in the area of your appliance. If the smell is strong, call 911!

Non-Emergencies

For other service concerns, call a local licensed contractor. This includes no heat, no hot water, problems with pilots, and stove malfunctions. A properly licensed contractor will have the necessary equipment and access to parts to make repairs quickly. We recommend you find a contractor before something breaks. If you qualify for fuel assistance, funds are available to help you pay for necessary repairs to your heating appliances.

5. What documents do I need to apply for service?

We’ll need a copy of your driver’s license to verify your identity. If you stop in, we’ll take a copy and your signature here in our office. If you apply online, be sure to include a copy of your driver’s license when mailing the Residential Customer Registration Form (PDF) or a scan to include when applying by email or faxing our office at 508-946-3700.

6. How long does it take if I come in to sign for a new service?

We’ll process your request right away but we’ll still need 48 to 72 hours to set up the account and read the meter at the location for a final bill to the previous customer. Please include this amount of time in your moving schedule.

7. When will I get my first bill?

Our bills are produced and mailed based on a reading "route". Your first bill will come based on your location generally within a 30-day period and could come as early as two weeks after you sign for service. This first bill may reflect a partial month but your next bill will show usage for the full month.

8. What are my payment options?

Bills may be paid in person, online or through the mail. You can even go paperless and receive an electronic bill only. Read more about your payment options to decide for yourself.

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1. What do you do when the skies are clear but the storm is on the way?

Check out our handy advice on the back page of the July Safety Messenger (PDF). These handy quick-tips can help in a pinch when you suspect that a storm is on the way. Then make sure to download Your Guide to Storm Safety (PDF) for more details to prepare for a long-duration outage. Readiness counts!

2. What are the things everyone should check off the list to use electricity safely in their home?

Our friends at the Electric Safety Foundation International have provided a checklist (PDF) so that you can perform your own electrical safety inspection. Whether you're looking for a new home, just moving in or your older home hasn't been updated in a while, now's the time to take a look at these important clues.

3. What new devices can keep you safe?

Check out the January 2017 Safety Messenger (PDF) for information on electrical safety devices for the home.

4. How many strings of holiday lights can I string together without blowing a circuit?

UL listed lights state a maximum of 210 watts can be connected when using 22 gauge wire (the thinnest wire in use, typical of mini-lights). In this case, most traditional incandescent Christmas mini-lights only allow you to connect 4 or 5 sets end to end but with many LED mini light strings you can connect 40 to 50 or more together depending on the light count.

Consider your circuits:

• Most household circuits are 15 or 20 amps
• 15 amp circuits support 1,800 watts at 80% capacity (maximum recommendation)
• 20 amp circuits support 2,400 watts at 80% capacity (maximum recommendation)

Calculate your total number of bulbs times their wattage to plan maximum string connections and outlet capacity. Visit the Christmas Lights Etc. website to learn more about holiday lighting details like comparing the cost to run older incandescent lights to new LED lights - for example, 1,000 LED mini-lights only use 69 watts in comparison to the 408 watts used by 1,000 incandescent mini-lights.

5. Can you tell me a bit about carbon monoxide and how it especially presents dangers in cold weather?

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a deadly gas that can fill your house while you sleep and even while you're awake. It's invisible, has no odor, and often escapes undetected - unless you have a CO detector working in your home. Read about this unwanted visitor and important signs to look for in our November 2016 Safety Messenger (PDF). Make sure it doesn't go undetected!

6. How should I get out of my car if power lines fall onto it while I'm in it?

The best option is to stay put and call for help. Stay inside your car until our crews check to make sure the line isn't live (always assume it is!). If you absolutely must get out to stay safe, then carefully keep your hands at your sides and jump out so that you are not touching the vehicle when your feet hit the ground, and shuffle away. Shuffling keeps both feet in contact with the ground and very close to each other. Keep shuffling until you are at least three car lengths away (about 40 feet).