What is PA Power Switch?
The PA Power Switch is a platform run by the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC). The site allows Pennsylvania residents and business owners in deregulated areas to choose their electricity provider. Deregulation took effect in Pennsylvania in 2011 after the remaining caps on electric rates expired.
Our free SaveOnEnergy marketplace offers an easy alternative to the PA Power Switch site. The idea behind PA Power Switch is that you can compare Pennsylvania power rates. At SaveOnEnergy, we aim to provide a more streamlined process than the government-run site. Providers on our site must also meet certain requirements before we feature their rates, helping ensure the quality of your options.
SaveOnEnergy vs PA Power Switch
Using the SaveOnEnergy marketplace to compare power rates is easy. To get started, simply enter your ZIP code. You’ll then find a list of available plan types in your area, which you can browse or filter based on your interests.
PA Power Switch review
The PA Power Switch platform has some challenges. For one thing, any electricity company can post offers on the site. Even companies with poor reputations or numerous complaints against them can seek your business. This fact isn’t always obvious to customers because PA Power Switch doesn’t require providers to supply much information about their rates. Energy providers can lure customers in with a low starting rate that suddenly increases in line with the agreement’s easily missed fine print.
At SaveOnEnergy, we take a different approach to encourage transparency throughout the energy shopping process. We only feature certain reputable companies on our site and provide detailed information about each plan so you get a clear idea of what you’re signing up for before you enter into an agreement.
Pennsylvania power rates
Energy rates are current as of June 28, 2024.
Pennsylvania price to compare
The price to compare (PTC) is the default rate set by your local utility. You’ll pay the PTC if you don’t choose an alternate electricity provider. You can use the PTC as a benchmark when searching for a new energy plan. The PTC can fluctuate depending on the rate your local utility has to pay to obtain energy. It also varies depending on which utility serves your area.
Tips for choosing an electricity plan
When searching for a reliable energy plan, it’s important to choose the type of plan that’s right for you.
- Fixed-rate plans secure you the same rate for the duration of your contract, which can range from six months to two years. You may have to pay an early termination fee (ETF) if you cancel this plan type early unless you move outside your provider’s service area.
- A variable-rate plan is a flexible option you can cancel anytime, but your power rate will fluctuate in line with market costs. While that may result in cheaper rates when demand is low, prices can spike during high-demand seasons like summer and winter.
- Green energy plans are a great option for eco-conscious customers. These plans rely on renewable power like solar and wind energy.
- No-deposit options allow customers to skip the upfront deposit if their credit score is high enough. Those who don’t meet the credit threshold can consider a prepaid plan, which allows you to pay for electricity in advance and refill the account as needed.
When signing up for an electricity plan, read the plan details closely to avoid hidden fees. For example, some providers may attract your attention with a low entry rate. However, this rate may only apply if you use a certain amount of energy.
Another thing to keep in mind is that utilities can change their PTCs at various points throughout the year. The dates are March 1, June 1, Sept. 1, and Dec. 1. If one of these dates is approaching, you may want to check whether your utility is increasing or lowering its PTC to get the most accurate comparison when shopping.
Pennsylvania residential vs commercial power rates
Residential electricity rates tend to be more expensive than commercial rates due to the fact that businesses use more energy than residents. Although the rate is cheaper, business electricity bills are much higher.
Whether you’re a business owner or a Pennsylvania resident, keeping up to date with the latest average rates is an important way to make sure you’re getting a good deal. According to the Energy Information Administration (EIA), the average residential energy rate for Pennsylvania customers is 17.95 cents per kWh. On the other hand, Pennsylvania businesses pay about 11.49 cents per kWh for their power.