Best Pennsylvania Electricity Companies

Read our guide to help discover the best Pennsylvania electricity company for you. Pennsylvania residents and businesses have been able to choose their electricity supplier since the state deregulated electricity in 1996. We compared electricity suppliers on price, incentives, contract terms and the ability to offer clean energy.
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Compare Reviews for Top Pennsylvania Electricity Companies | ||||||
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Deregulated energy retailer. Sells natural gas and electricity directly to customers. Frequently offers service below market price. Fixed annual or 2-year rate per therm. Anytime cancellation. | ![]() | Chat with a ConsumerAffairs decision guide Live agent | ||||
Discount natural gas and electricity provider. Offers green energy options. Available in select states. Online enrollment. Flat-rate billing available in select areas. Residential and business services available. | ![]() | Chat with a ConsumerAffairs decision guide Live agent | ||||
Penn Power is a FirstEnergy electric supplier servicing select parts of Pennsylvania, including Pittsburgh. Business and residential customers can receive a free quote to find out if they can save money by switching to Penn Power. | ![]() | Chat with a ConsumerAffairs decision guide Live agent | ||||
Retail energy provider that specializes in electricity and natural gas for select locations in the U.S. and Canada. Rates based on location and quote. Easy-to-use website and live chat for customer questions. | ![]() | Chat with a ConsumerAffairs decision guide Live agent | ||||
Low-price electricity plans starting at 10.4 cents per kWh for an 18-month fixed rate in some areas. Offers green-friendly options and an app that tracks energy usage. Availability and pricing varies depending on location. | ![]() | Chat with a ConsumerAffairs decision guide Live agent | ||||
With service territory spanning six states and 65,000 miles, FirstEnergy is one of the largest electric systems in the country. They serve customers in Ohio, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, New Jersey, Maryland and New York. | ![]() | Chat with a ConsumerAffairs decision guide Live agent | ||||
PECO Energy is the largest utility serving the greater Philadelphia area. They have several assistance programs for low-income customers and those experiencing temporary financial hardship. | ![]() | Chat with a ConsumerAffairs decision guide Live agent | ||||
Supplies natural gas and electricity to customers in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio and Pennsylvania. Multiple plans, including fixed-rate, unlimited and renewable. 90-day trial with no termination or cancellation fees. | ![]() | Chat with a ConsumerAffairs decision guide Live agent | ||||
Offers electricity to residents and businesses throughout 3 states. In Texas, their 9 plans begin at 9.4 cents per kWh for 36 months. | ![]() | Chat with a ConsumerAffairs decision guide Live agent | ||||
Read Author Review | Pennsylvania residents and businesses in Allegheny and Beaver counties can choose Duquesne Light Company as their electricity supplier. The company offers fast and easy start, stop and transfer of service. | ![]() | Chat with a ConsumerAffairs decision guide Live agent |
Important Pennsylvania electricity company features
Price
A lot of variables factor into the price of your energy costs, which is why it pays to shop around and see what rates you will get with different electricity companies. Understanding how different rates work will make a difference when deciding which company will save you the most money.
- Fixed: A fixed rate means your price is set for a predetermined amount of time, typically a year. The price will not change through the duration of your agreement, which can be financially beneficial if prices increase but costly if the market price for electricity decreases during your contract.
- Variable: A variable rate changes with the market conditions. Your price can increase or drop depending on market rates, and, if you keep up with market rates, you can figure out ways to lower your costs. Fluctuations can make it difficult to budget or plan your monthly expenses.
- Time of day/usage: Some plans will charge customers based on their usage. They may charge more per kilowatt hour (kWh) during evening and weekend hours than they charge during the day.
Type of energy used
There are multiple types of energy sources that can be used to generate electricity. Different companies use different types of energy. Consumers can also generate their own clean energy and interconnect it to some energy suppliers.
- Electricity: Electricity is neither renewable nor nonrenewable. Instead, it is made up of the conversion of other energy sources, which can be renewable, nonrenewable or a combination of the two.
- Nonrenewable energy sources: Nonrenewable energy sources, including crude oil, natural gas, coal and uranium, cannot be replenished naturally in a short amount of time. These energy sources have a negative impact on the environment.
- Renewable energy sources: Renewable energy sources, including wind, solar, geothermal and hydropower, can be replenished naturally in a short amount of time. These energy sources are also called clean energy sources, since they do not pollute the environment. Many electricity companies are turning to clean energy sources for both residential and commercial customers.
Sustainable initiatives
Many electricity and utility companies are invested in sustainable initiatives that help protect the environment in the communities they serve. Consumers who are interested in sustainability will want to seek an electricity company with a focus on improving the environment.
- Waste management: Waste management programs help residents and businesses cut down on waste at the source. This can include fewer harmful emissions by using renewable energy sources, reducing the use of plastic bottles and more.
- Sustainable energy fund: Pennsylvania has four funds in place to assist in the development of sustainable and renewable energy programs in the region and statewide. The funds have helped fund over 100 projects through loans and grants.
- Recycling: Electricity companies who focus on recycling are dedicated to improving the environment of their community. Check with your chosen electricity company to see how they incorporate recycling into their everyday business model.
Additional services
Some electricity companies do more than just provide electricity. Their service can include plans that help homeowners inside and outside of their residence.
- Tree removal: Tree removal can include removing trees and stumps, cleaning up branches, pruning and handling any tree-related emergencies. These services are usually offered at a competitive price.
- Warranties: Warranties can include extended home warranties for appliances and other systems. These might be offered through the electricity company, or they may be offered through a third-party provider.
- Lighting installation: Many electricity companies can install security and landscaping lights on homes, in addition to streetlights in neighborhoods and on highways.
Convenience
How easy it is to transfer your plan, set up new service, keep track of your usage and pay your bills might make a difference when it comes to choosing an electricity provider.
- Online bill pay: Online bill pay is standard for electricity companies, although most also give consumers the option to pay by mail or over the phone. Online bills can usually be set up for automatic payments, so you don’t need to worry about missing a payment.
- Transfer of service: It should be easy to transfer your service with any electricity provider, as long as you are moving within their same area of service. Some areas of service are significantly smaller than others, so if you are a resident or business with plans to relocate in the near future, you may want to consider choosing a company with a wider service network.
- Usage tracking: Tracking your energy usage can help you save money now and in the future. Most companies have tracking available when you log in to your online account, and some have apps that can make it even easier to track your usage and figure out areas where you can save more money by using less electricity.
Customer service
Because most things for your service can be done online, you won’t be regularly interacting with the customer service representatives at your chosen electricity company. You will, however, want the assurance that someone is available to help you when there is a crisis or emergency.
- On-call emergency service: Most electricity companies have emergency service available 24/7, with crews available to work throughout the day and night to restore power, handle down power lines and take care of any other emergencies that arise. Make sure you have the emergency phone number stored, since it is likely separate from the office phone number.
- Financial assistance: Whether you are low-income or need some temporary financial relief due to a personal crisis, your electricity company should be able to provide you with some form of financial assistance. Call to speak to someone about your options before you miss a payment.
- Power outages: Power outages can happen on a wide or small scale, which is why it’s important to report them when they happen in your area to make sure help is on the way. Most electricity companies have power outage information updates on their websites, and some will send text alerts to customers who want to receive them.
Pennsylvania electricity supplier vs. electric utilities
Electricity suppliers
Electricity suppliers (also called electricity providers) generate your electricity, which is the most expensive part of your electric bill. Switching electricity suppliers can save residents and businesses hundreds of dollars each year in areas that are deregulated, including Pennsylvania.
Electric utility
The electric utility company is the company responsible for building and maintaining power lines and poles. The electricity you receive from an electricity supplier runs through the lines and poles put up by the electric utility. Residents and businesses should contact their electric utility if they experience a power outage in their area.
Pennsylvanians who should consider switching electric companies
Residents
Pennsylvania residents may find that switching electric suppliers can save them hundreds of dollars on utility costs each year. Look for a supplier in your location, and compare prices to find the one that will save you the most money.
Business owners
Business owners can also save money by switching to a new electricity supplier. Electricity suppliers often offer customized rates for businesses, so make sure to shop around and see which one will save money and provide the best service.
Green energy lovers
Residents and businesses that want to invest in green energy will want to look for an electricity provider that uses nonrenewable resources to comprise their electricity. They might also want to consider using their own personal clean energy sources and connecting them with a local energy supplier.
Pennsylvania electricity companies FAQ
What is a good electric rate in PA?
The average price of residential electricity in Pennsylvania is about 14 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh), which is a little over 1 cent more than the national average, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Commercial electricity, on the other hand, costs about 9 cents per kWh, lower than the U.S. average. There are a number of steps you can take to lower your electric bill.
How do I choose an electricity supplier?
To choose an electricity supplier:
- Make sure the electricity provider is licensed.
- Ask for pricing information, including taxes.
- Find out the length of any agreement/contract and its terms.
- Read reviews about customer service.
How do I switch energy providers?
To switch energy providers, you should:
- Shop for a new energy supplier.
- Read over the agreement/contract carefully before signing.
- Notify your current utility of the change, or wait for your new supplier to make the notification so that you aren’t double-billed or have a lapse in coverage.
- Find out when your new service starts.
- Understand the billing cycle and how the energy supplier charges for electricity usage.
How often can I switch electricity suppliers?
You can switch electricity suppliers anytime, but you should always check to see if you have a contract with your supplier and if there is a cancellation fee or any penalties or fees for switching.
Is electricity cheaper for businesses?
Yes, electricity for businesses is generally cheaper than it is for homes. You will pay based on your business size and consumption, so overall price will vary by business.
What is a third-party energy supplier?
A third-party energy supplier buys energy from a utility company in bulk and then sells it for a lower price than the utility does.
When did Pennsylvania deregulate electricity?
Pennsylvania deregulated electricity with the passage of the Electricity Generation Customer Choice and Competition Act of 1996. The bill was signed into law on Dec. 3, 1996.
How do I find out what electricity company I am with?
To find out the electricity company that supplies your energy:
- Look for the company name on your current electricity bill.
- Speak with the building manager, previous tenant or previous owner.
- Find your electrical meter and look for a company sticker or logo.
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Compare Reviews for Top Pennsylvania Electricity Companies | ||||||
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Read Author Review | Penelec is one of two providers that delivered electricity to Pennsylvania residents before deregulation. Customers who do not want a new electric generation supplier can continue to receive electricity from Penelec. | ![]() | Chat with a ConsumerAffairs decision guide Live agent | |||
Read Author Review | PPL Corporation is a multinational investor-owned utility company, servicing the UK and parts of the United States. PPL Electric Utilities delivers electricity to residents and businesses in eastern and central Pennsylvania. | ![]() | Chat with a ConsumerAffairs decision guide Live agent | |||
Read Author Review | Wellsboro Electric Company has been serving their community since 1894. Their service area includes 178 square miles of northern Pennsylvania, and they have a variety of convenient online features for residents to use. | ![]() | Chat with a ConsumerAffairs decision guide Live agent |
Information in this guide is general in nature and is intended for informational purposes only; it is not legal, health, investment or tax advice. ConsumerAffairs.com makes no representation as to the accuracy of the information provided and assumes no liability for any damages or loss arising from its use.
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