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How Do I Sign Up for Electricity?

When it comes to finding a power supplier for your home, shopping around is often the best way to find the lowest price and the best value. Not everyone has this freedom, however, as deregulation is not the case in all 50 states. Thanks to deregulation, though, many people across New York can choose where to buy their electricity. That means you, the customer, are in control.

How do you find the right electricity supplier for you?

You begin by visiting your state’s public services commission website, which will feature a complete listing of your options. This process is actually easier than it sounds, as these websites typically present a side-by-side comparison that is easy to follow and understand. Depending on the state you live in, you may have to enter your city or zip code to narrow the list of options in your region.

In any case, once you have your list, you can compare prices and plans. Here are three key considerations that may affect how much you pay.

1. Rate

This is the unit price for the cost of electricity, which is priced by the kilowatt hour (kWh). To add context, the average U.S. household uses 911 kWh per month, though it’s important to remember that many factors can increase or decrease your electricity usage. These may include season, the number of family members living in the home, and how many energy-efficient appliances you own.

2. Rate Type

Just like price, the rate type has a significant impact on how much you will end up paying for electricity. Many companies offer fixed-rate plans, but some offer variable-rate plans. They are very different and it’s crucial to understand why.

3. Company type

Before you choose, it’s important to understand that you could potentially be doing business with up to two entities to get your electricity.

But how do I actually sign up?

Once you have weighed your options and chosen which provider is right for you, you are ready to sign up for service!

First, start with your state’s public service utility website to find out who your default electric utility is. In most states, you will need to sign up here first, since the utility company for your area own the power lines and deliver the electricity. You can also purchase the electricity from the default utility.

Usually, you can open an account online with the utility company. They will ask for information to help them verify your identity, such as your name, address, date of birth, and social security or driver’s license number. You’ll also have to indicate when service begins. If you don’t choose another supplier, the utility company will be your supplier.

Next, click here and select the plan that right for you. You will be asked for your service address, along with your name and phone number. You must also provide the account number with your default company. (You can find this number on your most recent bill, or you can call the company and talk to a service representative.)

Whichever plan you choose, it’s important to create a reminder for yourself a month before your service contract expires. Many companies will send a reminder, but it’s a good idea to be prepared just in case. This way you’ll be better able to decide when it’s worth staying or whether it’s time to look for something new.