How to Switch to a Renewable Energy Provider

In the U.S., there are currently 18 states that allow consumers to choose their electricity suppliers. These states are known as deregulated markets.

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How do deregulated markets operate?

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In deregulated markets, public utilities control the transmission of electricity through high voltage lines from the power station to substations and distribution through low voltage lines from the substation to homes.

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Although consumers don't have a say in transmission and distribution, they do have the option of choosing an electricity supplier or generating company. They may base their choices on factors like cheaper rates, more flexibility, or renewable sources of energy such as wind or solar power.

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If you live in one of these deregulated states, you can easily switch electricity companies by going to their respective public utility website. Below, we’ve linked to a resource for each deregulated state’s utility options:

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• Connecticut
• Delaware
• Illinois
• Maine
• Maryland
• Massachusetts
• New Hampshire
• New Jersey
• New York
• Ohio
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• Texas
• Washington D.C.

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Multiple suppliers make for a more competitive market, which leads to savings for homeowners, renters, and everyday energy users. When choosing a new electricity plan, be sure that it aligns with your priorities. If you're moving soon, choose a plan with a flexible cancellation policy. Another benefit is the ability to switch to a green energy provider for clean electricity.

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How to switch to a green electricity provider

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Commons recommends using WattBuy to find out if you're eligible to switch your provider and get help along the way.

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You can also look into the the public utility websites of deregulated states, where you’ll find options to filter the energy providers based on attributes like renewable, solar, wind, or green power.

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For instance, on Texas’ public utility website, you can enter the zip code of your region to see various options and details of power companies. You can filter by companies using renewable energy and switch to a provider that matches your requirement.

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Pennsylvania’s public utility website has a similar feature where you can use filters like renewable energy, wind, and solar.

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Switching to clean electricity providers in regulated states

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Unfortunately, if you live in a regulated state, switching electricity providers is not an option. However, there are other ways to obtain clean electricity.

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One option is to install solar panels on your rooftop and go off the grid. However, this may not be feasible for everyone.

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Another option is to explore community solar options, where you can obtain clean electricity from large arrays of solar panels located nearby. This is a great way to obtain green electricity without the hassle of installing solar panels.

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You could also try purchasing renewable energy certificates (RECs) to help achieve your clean electricity goals.

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Switching to renewable energy and off of fossil fuels is a crucial part of a low-carbon future. If you’re able to make the switch at home, that not only moves us forward toward a clean energy future, it goes a long way to lowering your household carbon footprint.