Homeowners across Pennsylvania are about to see sharp increases in their electric rates. These increases are due to quarterly price changes from electricity distribution companies.
These increases affect about 75% of all electricity consumers in the state. If you are a customer with your utility, consider checking for a competitive electricity supplier.
Variable-rate Energy Plans
Homeowners in Pennsylvania can choose their electricity providers, which is an excellent option for those who want to save money on their bills. The market is competitive, and many energy suppliers like PPL electric rates offer deals on variable-rate and fixed-rate plans.
Variable-rate plans have a price that changes based on the current energy market. This may mean you pay more per kWh during some months while less per kWh in others.
The price of your electric supply plan is just one part of your utility bill, including costs for moving electricity from the power plant to your home and maintaining power lines, transformers, and substations. So, choosing the right energy plan is crucial to ensure you get the best rates possible.
A variable-rate energy plan is an excellent choice for those who want the flexibility to switch providers when prices drop, or they’re offered a better deal. It also allows you to budget your monthly expenses more accurately because you know exactly how much you’ll be spending per kilowatt-hour.
Another benefit of a variable-rate energy plan is that you’ll be able to save more than if you had a fixed rate. This can be especially helpful for people who frequently travel or work from home.
Most customers opt for a variable-rate energy plan because they’re still determining how long they’ll stay in their current home or their electricity needs. However, this option is also risky since the price of electricity can change quickly due to weather or other factors.
Fixed-rate Energy Plans
Choosing your electricity supplier is a big decision for many homeowners. With so many options available, it can take time to make an informed choice. But Pennsylvania’s deregulated energy market allows you to shop around for a better deal on your electric rates.
One option is a fixed-rate energy plan. These contracts are typically for six, 12, 24, or 36 months. This gives you the security of a fixed price for your energy, regardless of external factors such as weather or market volatility.
Another option is a variable-rate energy plan. These don’t lock you into a specific rate for an extended period, and your electricity costs can fluctuate with the market. However, these plans can save you money in the long run if prices dip.
While it’s true that some people can save money on their energy bills by using a variable-rate plan, most homeowners will end up paying more over the long run.
This is especially true if you live in an area with harsh weather, which can cause power outages. If this happens, you’ll need to call your utility for assistance.
Switching to a different energy supplier in Pennsylvania is easy and can be done without interruptions. Your new supplier will contact your local utility and make the necessary changes. You can even use Starion Energy to transfer your services in just minutes.
Long-term Contracts
If you’re a Pennsylvania homeowner looking for assistance with your electric bills, look no further than PA Power Switch. This state-run website was created to help homeowners navigate the state’s deregulated energy market and choose an electric provider that best suits their needs.
In 1996, Pennsylvania lawmakers passed the Electricity Generation Customer Choice and Competition Act, which allowed residents and businesses to shop for an electric supplier. This gave consumers more power over their energy bills and encouraged suppliers to offer competitive prices.
The law also put caps on electricity rates. This helped to reduce the cost of electricity in Pennsylvania and save the state billions of dollars.
Many energy customers in Pennsylvania have been paying their utility companies more than they need to. This has caused some to turn to programs that assist with utility bills.
One such program offers bill-payment assistance to lower-income households. While the program is a success, it still needs its challenges.
A recent Spotlight PA report uncovered several applicants who struggled with the program’s application process. In interviews, two told of waiting months for help with their monthly mortgage payments, and another said they were shut off from their utilities while they waited for approval.
In addition, long-term contracts are a significant commitment for an agency, so choosing the right clients is essential. These clients will have a clear vision for their business and want to work with you for the long haul.
Green Energy Plans
Green energy plans are an increasingly popular choice for homeowners who want to support renewable electricity sources, such as solar power. They allow customers to subscribe to an electric plan that guarantees all their energy will come from green sources like wind and solar.
There are two types of green energy plans available: variable-rate and fixed-rate. Both have pros and cons, but they are excellent options for homeowners who want to support sustainable resources.
Variable-rate green plans often have a monthly cap on how much you can consume of a specific energy source, and your utility’s market price determines the rate. This allows you to plan your energy consumption and budget accordingly.
Some competitive suppliers offer green energy plans with a fixed monthly amount, but variable-rate green plans are rare. Shopping around is the best way to find a green program that fits your needs.
Besides choosing an energy supplier, you must ensure that the green energy you choose is backed by certified renewable energy certificates (RECs). These are used to prove that consumers have switched to a green plan.
The Administration is working hard to build a cleaner energy future in Pennsylvania. The Administration is readying areas offshore to harness power from wind, approving new solar projects on public lands, and passing the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to build thousands of miles of transmission lines that connect more Americans to clean energy.
