There are many reasons why you should choose the right electric company for your needs. When choosing an electric company to provide your home energy supply, you need to consider a few different things before making the decision. Choosing the right electric service company can have a significant impact on how well you are serviced and it can even make or break your home’s ability to function properly especially during storms or other power outages. Before you get started, there are several things that you need to know about choosing the right electrical company and what you can do to make sure that the experience you have will last.
Regulation means that natural gas and electricity supplies and prices are regulated by the government.
On the other hand, Deregulation allows different energy supply companies to enter the energy market. Residents of the deregulated US states, such as Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas, etc. can choose their utility providers.
Here are some useful facts about Deregulation.
- History Of Energy Deregulation
Thomas Edison opened the first electric power plant station in the US in 1882. The first natural gas company started working in the 1820s.
During the great depression, electricity companies owned 73% of the electricity in the US. Therefore, in 1935 Congress passed the Public Utility Holding Company Act. This act regulated the way the electricity company did business. It also changed the way companies sell power.
- Pros And Cons Of Deregulation
Deregulation seems to be a pretty good thing. But, does it have any disadvantages? Let’s see some pros and cons of Deregulation.
Freedom of choice
If you live in one of the deregulated states you are free to choose your electricity and natural gas provider. It means that you have the ability to make an energy choice for a utility provider at a competitive rate.
On the other hand, the regulated states all have the same provider. They do not have the ability to choose a cheaper rate.
Better service quality
Another positive aspect of Deregulation is a high level of competition. As long as customers can make the choice of energy supplier, companies will constantly work on the improvement of their services.
Lower rates
A higher competition usually leads to lower rates. With many different companies on the market, consumers can make an energy comparison and choose the best rate for them. Therefore, the companies will always compete to offer better rates than the others.
Planning troubles
Having many companies to choose from is a great thing for consumers. On the other hand, it is not easy to predict the amount of energy each company will produce. Unfortunately, this can lead to overproduction or energy supplies shortages.
Prices might not go as down as you expect
Competition can provide some nice benefits for consumers. However, big competition doesn’t always mean lower prices. Sometimes the completion might not be high enough to influence the price levels.
- How To Choose The Right Electricity Provider And Plan For You
With all these electricity and natural gas suppliers around it’s easy to get confused. Here are some factors that can help you choose the right one for you.
Company’s reputation
When choosing your electricity and natural gas supplier you want to deal with a reliable company. You need to have the confidence in them that they will take care of everything without hassle. The more time that you spend worrying about your electrical problems, the more money you will be spending unnecessarily.
So, if you live in a deregulated state, you can always check on companies’ history and reputation and make a good choice.
Your needs
Prices and costs sometimes depend on the usage. So, before you start searching, check your average usage. You can find and compare your old electricity bills.
Choosing the best option for you is much easier when you know how much energy you need each month.
Make a comparison
One of the most important aspects of Deregulation is consumers’ right to choose. This means that you can make apples to apples comparison of all suppliers and plans around you.
In other words, if you are from Ohio (or another deregulated state) you are free to choose energy suppliers and rates that are the best for you and your budget.
Final thoughts
Thanks to Deregulation you can save a significant amount of money a year. Don’t hesitate, make a comparison and make the best choice for you and your family.
