Press Release

PUC Urges Consumers to #TakeCharge of Electric Bills by Conserving Energy, Checking Contracts and Shopping

Published on 5/28/2015

Filed under: Electric

HARRISBURG – As summer heat approaches, the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) urges consumers to #TakeCharge of their electric bills by conserving energy, reviewing supply pricing and contracts and viewing other available offers.

“Hotter weather and humidity mean that our cooling systems are working overtime to keep our homes comfortable,” said PUC Chairman Gladys M. Brown. “To avoid being surprised by a higher bill, consumers should be aware of the generation rate they are paying, how shopping could provide savings and of their usage, conserving where possible through a number of measures.”

The PUC offers a variety of conservation tips and information, from using heat-producing appliances like dryers at night to avoid heating up the house, to weather-stripping all doors. Information on how to save money on your summer electric bill also is available. 

Statewide, more than 2 million customers receive their electricity from a competitive electric generation supplier (EGS), according to information compiled by the PUC. The “price to compare” (PTC) for many Pennsylvania electric utilities will change on June 1. The PTC is the price per kilowatt-hour that the default electric utility charges. Consumers can use the PTC to evaluate prices from licensed EGSs at www.PAPowerSwitch.com.

When you shop for an electric supplier, you are choosing the company that generates your electricity. Generation supply costs make up approximately two-thirds of the average electric bill. For most electric customers who select a new supplier, transmission costs will also be included in the charges from the new supplier. The electric utility that distributes your electricity and sends your bill will remain the same.

“If you use a competitive EGS, now is the time to take out your contract and review the terms and conditions – know what your rate is, whether it is fixed or variable, when your contract term expires and whether you have an early termination fee,” said Chairman Brown. “You can learn more and evaluate your options on PAPowerSwitch.com – there may be savings available in your area.”

Recent enhancements to PAPowerSwitch.com have made it simpler to learn, shop and switch. New website upgrades, which also are reflected on the mobile site, include:

• Easier navigation on a streamlined homepage;
• A zip code search on the homepage, leading to a graphic snapshot about savings opportunities, rates and options in a specific area;
• Larger and brighter consumer alerts on the homepage, notifying viewers of upcoming default rate changes and other pertinent reminders;
• A prominent “Education” button, directing users to videos and information about switching power, understanding your bill, how to choose a supplier, fixed and variable rates and consumer rights and protections; and
• A “Ways to Save” button, guiding consumers to a factual page on opportunities to conserve energy and save money.

Additionally, this is the first cooling season during which customers in the majority of Pennsylvania service territories are now able to switch to a different EGS or back to default utility service more quickly, through an off-cycle meter reading, within as few as three business days once the utility has been notified. Customers should call their utility to inquire about accelerated switching options. The accelerated time frame replaces the 11- to 40-day time frame it took prior to the approved PUC regulation last year.

The PUC’s message is simple: #TakeCharge of summer energy costs. Learn more about conservation. Check your EGS contracts. Use PAPowerSwitch.com to shop for service. Look into programs that help low-income customers maintain service. Visit www.puc.pa.gov or call the PUC at 1-800-692-7380.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities; ensures safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protects the public interest; educates consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; furthers economic development; and fosters new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

For recent news releases and video of select Commission proceedings or more information about the PUC, visit our website at www.puc.pa.gov. Follow the PUC on Twitter – @PA_PUC for all things utility. “Like” Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission on Facebook for easy access to information on utility issues.

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Contact:

• Deputy Press Secretary
  717-787-5722