First, there’s the generation or production stage, during which your electricity or natural gas is created or prepared for consumption. The generation/production stage is handled by your energy supplier.
Frequently asked
questions.
You have questions. We have answers. Learn more about switching energy suppliers.
- Are energy suppliers and utility companies the same thing?
- What is energy deregulation?
- How do I switch energy suppliers?
- Who can switch energy suppliers?
- Can I switch utility companies?
- Can I switch energy suppliers at any time?
- How do I know if I’m in an energy contract currently?
- Does it cost money to switch energy suppliers?
- What happens when you change your energy supplier?
Are energy suppliers and utility companies the same thing?
No, they are not.
Getting energy into your home is a three-step process. Energy suppliers and utility companies handle different parts of the process.
How do I switch energy suppliers?
Switching energy suppliers is easy with PriceToCompare.com – simply type in your zip code, select your utility company, browse your available energy suppliers and pick the best plan for you. From there, your new supplier will reach out to finalize your new energy rate. After that, your utility company will begin to deliver your energy from your new supplier, and you should see your new rate take effect in one to two billing cycles.
Learn more about how switching energy providers works.
Who can switch energy suppliers?
Energy consumers who live in deregulated states can switch energy suppliers. Currently, 30 states and the District of Columbia are deregulated for electricity, natural gas or both.
Check to see if we have energy offers in your area.
Can I switch utility companies?
No, you cannot. A utility company is a public service that maintains infrastructure used to deliver amenities like natural gas and electricity to consumers.
Short of having new electricity or gas lines installed for your home, you cannot switch utility companies.
You can, however, decide who generates or produces your energy by switching energy suppliers.
Can I switch energy suppliers at any time?
Yes, as long as you are not currently in another supply contract with another supplier or a government aggregation program.
If you are currently in a contract, you may face termination fees for switching before the end of your contract. When choosing a new energy supplier contract, it’s a good idea to set a calendar reminder for the end date of the contract, and to note any auto-renewal terms that may be included. Many contracts simply conclude on the listed end date, but some contracts are set to auto-renew if you have not notified your supplier.
How do I know if I’m in an energy contract currently?
If you are not a part of a government aggregation program, or have never signed up with a new energy supplier before, you should not be bound to an energy supply contract.
If you’re still unsure whether you’re in a supply contract, reach out to your utility company to confirm.
Does it cost money to switch energy suppliers?
Shopping for and switching energy suppliers does not cost a dime on PriceToCompare.com. We provide a free and simple online shopping experience that allows you to choose the best energy rates with ease.
Important note: you may face termination fees for ending an energy contract early, so be sure to confirm that you are not under contract before choosing a new energy supplier.
If you’ve never shopped for energy rates before, you should not be in an energy contract, and should not have to worry about termination fees.
What happens when you change your energy supplier?
Once you’ve chosen the rate that’s best for you, your new supplier will reach out to finalize and set up your plan. Your newly chosen rate will take effect within one to two billing cycles.
Pro Tip: Review your contract terms and set a calendar reminder to notify you at least one month before the end date of your contract. This way, you’ll know when to renew your contract or start shopping for your next deal.
