- Free modem and anti-virus software
- No contracts and unlimited data
- 30 day money-back gurantee
- Speeds up to 2 Gbps**
- Plans starting at $30/month
Top 12 Electric Providers in Portland
- 11.1¢ /kWh
- 16.29¢ /kWh
- 11.4¢ /kWh
- 11.49¢ /kWh
- Renewable Energy Option
- 13.69¢ /kWh
- 13.99¢ /kWh
- 13.99¢ /kWh
- 14¢ /kWh
- 14.5¢ /kWh
- Renewable Energy Option
- 16.49¢ /kWh
Natural Gas Providers in Portland
Top 5 Internet Providers in Portland
- 2 Gbps**
- Cable
- Unlimited
- TV & Phone
- 88.47%
- $30.00/mo
- Most Affordable Plans
- 300 Mbps
- 5G
- Unlimited
- Mobile
- 99.57%
- $35.00/mo
- Wireless Internet Provider
- 400 Mbps
- Satellite
- Unlimited
- 100%
- $50.00/mo
- 150 Mbps
- Satellite
- 150-850 GB
- Phone
- 99.98%
- $39.99/mo
- Varies
- Fiber, Cable, 5G, & Satellite
- Varies
- 95%
- $39.95/mo
Solar Providers in Portland
Water & Sewage Providers in Portland
Top 5 Trash and Recycling Providers in Portland
Utilities Summary for Portland, ME
| Electric Companies: | 12 |
| Natural Gas Companies: | 1 |
| Water & Sewage Providers: | 1 |
| Garbage, Trash & Recycling Providers: | 5 |
| Municipal Electricity: | No |
Portland Internet Connectivity
Fastest Internet Providers in Portland
| Provider | Connection Type | Download Speed | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spectrum | Cable | 2 Gbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
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| Verizon 5G Home Internet | 5G | 300 Mbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
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| Starlink | Satellite | 400 Mbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
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| Viasat | Satellite | 150 Mbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
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| Earthlink | Fiber, Cable, 5G, & Satellite | Varies Not all speeds available in all areas |
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Portland Drinking Water Quality Information
Clean drinking water is essential for maintaining good health and overall well-being. Safe, contaminant-free water helps prevent the spread of diseases, supports proper hydration, and ensures the body's vital functions operate smoothly.
Portland's Primary Drinking Water Source: Surface Water
Drinking Water Contaminant Levels
Legal limit: 15 ppb
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Legal limit: 100 ppb
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Legal limit: 60 ppb
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Utilities in Nearby Cities
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I set up my utilities?
For electricity and gas, at least 2–3 business days before your move-in date. For internet, 2 weeks is recommended to secure an installation slot.
What identification is required to start service?
Most providers (PGE, NW Natural, Portland Water Bureau) require a Social Security Number. If you don’t have one, you can typically use a Driver’s License, Passport, or Tribal ID, though you may need to call to finalize the setup.
Do I have a choice between PGE and Pacific Power?
No. Service areas are strictly defined. Most of Portland is PGE, but Pacific Power serves specific pockets in North Portland (like Hayden Island) and parts of the downtown core. Check your address on the Oregon Utility Map if you are unsure.
Is there a "Clean Energy" fee on my bill?
You will see a Public Purpose Charge (about 1.5%–3%) on your bill. This is mandated by the state to fund energy efficiency and renewable energy projects through the Energy Trust of Oregon.
Do I need to be home for the gas to be turned on?
Usually no, provided the technician has access to the exterior meter. However, if the gas has been off for a long period, NW Natural may require an adult to be present to perform a safety check and relight pilots.
Why is my water bill so high?
In Portland, your “Water Bill” actually includes three services: water usage, sanitary sewer (treatment), and stormwater (management of rainwater runoff). The sewer portion is often the most expensive part of the bill.
What is "Stormwater Billable Area"?
This charge is based on the amount of “impervious surface” (roof, driveway, etc.) on your property that prevents rain from soaking into the ground. Residents can get a discount on this through the Clean River Rewards program if they manage their own runoff (e.g., rain barrels or rain gardens).
I’m renting a house — do I need to set up trash service?
No. Per Portland City Code 29.30.140, landlords are legally required to set up and pay for the base garbage, recycling, and compost service for residential rentals (up to 4 units). The bill must be in the landlord’s name.
How often is my trash picked up?
Standard service in Portland is every other week for garbage (grey bin), and weekly for recycling (blue bin), glass (yellow bin), and compost/yard debris (green bin).
What is the fastest internet option in Portland?
Fiber-to-the-home is widely available via Quantum Fiber, and Google Fiber (in select areas). These offer symmetrical speeds (same upload/download), which is superior to the cable internet provided by Xfinity.
Are there discounts for low-income residents?
Yes. The Portland Water Bureau offers a “Smart Discount” (automatic eligibility) or a Bill Discount Program based on income. PGE and NW Natural also offer Income-Qualified Bill Discount programs that can lower your monthly bill by 15%–25%.