Understanding Your Electric Bill

Ever wonder what all the numbers and charges on your bill mean? You're not alone. Explore our interactive bill guide by clicking the letters throughout the bill to learn what each section means and better understand your energy use, billing details, and available services.

Front of a sample Vermont Electric Cooperative electric bill
Back of a sample Vermont Electric Cooperative electric bill

Understanding Your Bill

Select one of the orange letters on the bill to learn more about that section.
A

Contact Information

There are several ways to contact VEC about your bill or account.

  • Phone: (800) 832-2667 or (802) 635-2331
  • Office Hours: 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM, Mon-Fri
  • Website: www.vermontelectric.coop
B

Your Account Information

Your account number, name, and service address are listed here. Please refer to this information when calling or making a payment. Also, make sure this information is accurate and updated as necessary.

C

Total Amount Due

Summarizes total balance or budget amount due and the payment due date. Automatic payment is indicated if you are a participant in that program.

D

Usage Comparison

This section compares your electricity use for the current billing month, previous month and the same period last year.

E

Daily Averages

This is your average daily electricity use in kilowatt-hours and your average daily cost during the billing period.

F

Payment Stub

This detachable payment section includes the information needed when submitting a payment by mail.

G

Metering Details

This section provides your billing rate, meter number(s), dates of power usage, meter readings, usage, and meter multiplier.

Most residential accounts have a meter multiplier of 1. For some larger homes and businesses, the meter records an accurate, proportional amount of the electricity used, and the meter multiplier is used to calculate total usage.

H

Previous Account Activity

This shows your previous balance, any payments or adjustments received.

I

Current Account Activity

This section provides a breakdown of the charges that make up your current electric bill.

  • Customer Charge: A fixed charge for access to electric service, supporting the maintenance of the poles, wires, and equipment that keep power flowing to your home or business.
  • Energy Charge: The cost of the electricity you use, measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh). Residential members receive a discounted rate on the first 100 kWh used each month. Any additional electricity is billed at the standard rate.
  • Energy Efficiency Charge: A per-kWh charge that funds Efficiency Vermont, the statewide energy efficiency utility. These funds support programs and services that help Vermonters save energy, lower their energy costs, and improve energy efficiency.
  • Sales Tax: if applicable
J

Total Amount Due

This is your total bill amount due including the previous and current account activity sections.

K

Monthly Usage Graph

This graph provides a visual comparison of your monthly electricity use and compares current usage with the previous year.

L

Message Center

This section includes information about SmartHub, payment options, and important Co-op updates.