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Step-by-Step Guide: How to Set Up Natural Gas and Electricity Service
Written by Faith Foushee
Edited by Hannah Hillson
Last updated 03/25/2024
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Key Points
- In deregulated energy markets, you have the power to choose your energy provider.
- You can use the SaveOnEnergy marketplace to find the best electricity rate or natural gas service for your home.
- You can search, compare, and sign up for energy all in one place with SaveOnEnergy.
Whether you’re moving across town or relocating to a deregulated area from another state, setting up energy service in your new home doesn’t have to be complicated. You can set up your electricity or natural gas service in three simple steps. This guide will take you through the process, ensuring a smooth energy transition.
- Choose a provider
- Sign up for an energy plan
- Enjoy your new service
1. How do I choose an energy provider?
In a deregulated energy market, you can choose your energy provider. With so many options, picking an energy plan and provider can be complicated. SaveOnEnergy simplifies the energy plan shopping experience by compiling the best offers from popular providers in deregulated areas across the United States. To get started, enter your ZIP code and we’ll display electricity and natural gas rates in your area. From there, you can easily sort and compare energy plans to find the best fit for you.
2. How do I sign up for an energy plan?
Once you find a plan that suits your energy needs, click check availability to begin the sign-up process. You can choose whether you want to complete the process online or call to sign-up with an energy professional. Our representatives can answer any plan, rate, and provider questions.
Through our secure process, you will enter some personal information to ensure a seamless experience with your selected provider. Have your address for service setup, billing address, and credit card information ready. Depending on your chosen plan, the provider may require a soft credit check to determine if a deposit is required. If you have a low credit score, consider a prepaid plan.
If you have questions, you can call our team at any point in the sign-up process. Once all the details are in order, you will be ready to start receiving electric or gas service at your home.
If you rent a new apartment or house, your landlord may ask for proof of utility sign-up. Finding out when you need to provide such proof is important to ensure a hassle-free move-in. Remember to inquire from your landlord if utilities are included in the rent. If gas and electricity are included, you may not need to set them up.
3. What should I do after signing up for an energy plan?
Congratulations! Once you’ve signed up for a plan, your new retail energy supplier will work with your utility company to ensure your electricity or natural gas supply is connected to your new home on the right date. You should receive an email confirmation from SaveOnEnergy with your energy plan details. Keep a record of your confirmation number for any additional questions about your service. You can also contact your chosen provider if you need assistance.
How do I transfer my energy service?
If you’re moving to a new area, you may not need to find a new energy provider. Many suppliers operate in more than one ZIP code, so you may be able to transfer your electricity or natural gas service when you move.
Call your current energy provider to determine if they can supply power to your new address. If your provider can transfer your service, inform them of when to turn off power at your old residence and when to start service at your new address. The provider will coordinate with the utility to deliver energy to your new home at that time.
Use the SaveOnEnergy marketplace to ensure you receive the best natural gas or electricity rate for your new address. Enter your ZIP code to explore and compare rates.
How can I save money on energy bills?
You can use the SaveOnEnergy marketplace anytime to conveniently check energy rates for your home. Depending on your current rate type, you may have to pay an Early Termination Fee (ETF) to switch plans before your contract ends. You can also check the Price to Compare (PTC), the default rate your utility company sets if you do not sign up for a specific energy plan through an independent energy provider. Use the PTC to compare your electricity rate to other providers in your area. By knowing the PTC and other rates, you can find a lower rate to save money on your monthly energy bills.