How to Read an Electricity Facts Label

By knowing how to read the Electricity Facts Label you can easily compare different providers so you can find the best company that fits your energy needs and budget. Below is a list of items you will see on the label.

• Electricity Price: The electric company will detail the average price per kWh for 500 kWh, 1000 kWh and 1500 kWh. They will also list their monthly customer service charge and seasonal pricing. This is very important if you are on a tight budget.
• Contract Terms: If they have one, the company is required to disclose the minimum term and penalty for early cancellation. If you think you might want to discontinue service after a short period of time then you may want to look for a company that does not have contracts or offers short term contracts. Your rate will not change for the duration of the term.
• Sources of Power Generation: The provider will identify the sources used to generate their electricity. Their percentages will be graphed in comparison to average usage for electric generation for the state of Texas. This section is valuable if you are looking for a company that produces 100 percent green energy.
• Emissions: The electricity provider will list the types of emissions and waste created per kWh of electricity generated. The chart will identify if the

Types of Electricity Providers

Did you know there are different types of electric providers in Pennsylvania? Just because you receive a bill from Company X doesn't mean they provide the repairs to the electrical lines and poles in your area. This kind of information is valuable in choosing a provider or knowing who to call during a power outage.

Some electric companies, known as the Transmission & Distribution Service Providers, preserve the poles and wires that transmit and distribute electricity to your home. They are responsible for sending out an employee to fix any damages during an emergency outage. You can identify your Transmission & Distribution Service Providers company by looking on your electricity bill.

An affiliate electricity provider is an electric company that was split from your area's original electric company that produced and sold electricity. The affiliate, also referred to as the incumbent provider, only sells electricity and provides customer service.

The competitive retail electric provider offers lower pricing, alternative energy choices, innovative customer service options and special promotions to gain your business.

The Provider of Last Resort is always available in the event your electric company leaves the market for any reason. You will automatically be transferred to this provider so you won't lose power. Afterwards you can choose to stay with them or move on to another electricity company.

The city-owned utility is a non-profit utility that is owned and operated by the city. City-owned utilities do not have to allow competition within a regulated market. )

The municipally-owned utility is a non-profit utility that is owned and operated by the municipality. Utilities owned by the municipality do not have to allow competition within a regulated market.

The pay-as-you-go electricity provider offers a way to pay for your electricity bill upfront with no IDs, deposits or credit checks necessary. For consumers with bruised credit, this is a great way to continue powering your home without the stress of long term contracts.