Show All Answers

1. Making changes: How do I apply / start, stop or transfer electrical service?

• New Customers: Stop by our office on weekdays between 8:30 am and 4:30 pm or call us at 978-531-5975 to sign-up for electric service. A deposit is required if you do not own the property. You can download our Residential Service Agreement (PDF).
• Commercial and Industrial Customers: Please stop by our office or call at least a week in advance so that we can complete your paperwork. A deposit is required. Download our Non-Residential Service Agreement (PDF).
• Other Parties: See us or call to sign up for your service.

Deposits

All deposits must be paid by cash or check. Please note: If you are the owner of the property, there is no deposit required.

• Residential Customers with electric heat - Three Months’ Bills/$400 Minimum
• Residential Customers without electric heat -Three Months’ Bills/ $200 Minimum
• Commercial and Industrial Customers - Please contact PMLP Customer Service at 978-531-5975 to determine deposit amount.

All Accounts listed above will be assessed a cash deposit equal to three times the estimated average monthly electric bill (for that particular electric service) as determined by the Peabody Municipal Light Plant or the minimum amount as indicated above, whichever is larger. Minimum deposit requirements will be reviewed upon a rate increase.

2. Paying my bill: How can I pay my electric bill? What choices do I have?

• By mail using the enclosed envelope that comes with your bill.
• Pay online: pay safely and securely.
• By stopping by our Business Office on weekdays between 8:30 am and 4:30 pm.
• By automatic credit card payment. Download the Automatic Credit Card Payment Application Form (PDF).

3. Missing bill. I didn't receive my bill. What do I do?

Please call us at 978-531-5975 or use our Contact Form. We will be glad to get a duplicate bill to you.

4. Incorrect bill: I think my bill is wrong. How do I get it reviewed and corrected?

Please call us or stop in Monday through Friday between 8:30 am and 4:30 pm. We will help you understand the charge and assist you in reviewing and resolving any discrepancies or issues.

5. High bill: My bill is higher this month. Why?

Season reasons. In winter, cold snaps in some months can increase your bill by more than 10% as your heating increases. Because the sun sets earlier, you may use more lighting than you do in other seasons. Also, the type of clothing we wear is usually heavier in winter requiring longer electric dryer time. In cold weather, many people move inside and use more energy for lighting, cooking and entertainment. Even the types of food we cook in winter tend to be different and require longer cooking times.

In summer, the children are home. The hot, humid weather calls for more air conditioning and dehumidifier use. This alone can increase cooling costs by 10% or more. You may also use more energy for cooking outdoors, cleaning, home improvement projects and heating swimming pools.

Billing Periods: A typical billing period is between 29 and 31 days, but holidays may make your billing period up to 35 days long. A difference of 5 days on your bill can increase your bill by 17%.

Holiday Usage: During holidays, you might use more energy for cooking, cleaning, lighting and heating and company. This will result in a higher electric bill.

6. Power outages: How do I report a power outage?

For safety reasons, please call us directly 24/7 to report trouble at 978-531-5975. Your call may be monitored and recorded. Do not send an email.

In extreme safety emergencies, please dial 911. Never assume that your neighbors have already called. Please make the call.

7. Streetlight outage: How do I report a streetlight out?

To report a streetlight out, please call us at 978-531-5975, anytime 24/7. Please provide us with the exact location of the pole and light. If you can get the number on the pole, that's even better.

You can also report a Streetlight Outage by filling out our Streetlight Outage Form.

8. Solar and wind power: I want to install solar panels or a wind power generator on my property. How do I coordinate with the municipal electrical system?

Please visit the Solar and Renewable Energy section of our website.

9. Digging: Before digging on my property, do I have to notify anyone?

Yes. Call DigSafe at least 2 days before you dig, at 811! It's the law. Learn more from DigSafe.

Planning a home improvement job? Planting a tree? Installing a fence or deck? Wait! Whether you are planning to do it yourself or hire a professional, smart digging means doing the following. Call DigSafe before you dig, at 811. Please call, do not send an email. A DigSafe Representative will send out someone to mark underground facilities. Caution: the depth of utility lines varies and there may be multiple utility lines in a common area.

10. Energy conservation / assistance: Does PMLP have a program that can provide me with energy and weatherization assistance?

PMLP is part of the MMWEC Energy Efficiency and GO programs. Learn more about these programs.

For more information, on energy conservation, insulation or hiring a contractor, please call us here at PMLP: 978-573-1150.