How to Choose an Energy Supplier When Switching

Choosing a new energy supplier is easy! Competitive energy markets provide many benefits to you as a consumer, giving you the power to switch to an energy supplier that fits your needs. But when it’s time to choose an energy supplier, you might feel overwhelmed by all of the options. Your energy supplier is responsible for managing the rates you pay for your energy supply, so it’s important to do your research before making a decision.

Constellation is here to help! We want to help you understand what to look for in an energy supplier so you can be confident if you choose to switch your electricity or natural gas providers. We are also here to make sure you feel welcomed as a part of our family if you choose to sign-up with Constellation.

Looking to switch suppliers? Find fixed-rate plans in your area:

States:

Cities:

Why Should I Switch My Energy Supplier?

Your energy usage differs from your friends, family and neighbors, so finding an energy provider that offers a plan that best fits your needs is important.

In states with energy deregulation you have the control to select your provider and may be asking yourself, “When should I switch electric companies?”

It may be time to make a switch when:

You’re looking for a fixed-rate energy plan – Does your bill vary from month to month or feel unpredictable? Switching to a new energy provider allows you to select a fixed-rate plan so that you lock-in your energy supply rate, which will remain stable for the length of your contract.
You’re looking for reasonably-priced options – Are you in the market for a more affordable plan that works better with your budget? Switching energy suppliers may offer an opportunity to select a new plan that is more cost effective or more competitive.
You’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint – If you’re looking to be more eco-friendly, consider choosing a renewable-energy plan, which many providers now offer that are competitively priced.
You’re unhappy with your current provider – Are you in the market for better customer service, different plan options or just need a change? You can compare providers and plans and choose a new energy supplier and options and plan that works best for you.
Your plan no longer works for you – Are you working from home all day long? That free nights and weekends plan may not be the best fit anymore. Are you on a bill credit plan but not using enough energy to take advantage of the offer? Has your home life changed? Did you expand your family or downsize your home? Any of these changes could mean it may be time to explore your options and switch energy providers.

The power to choose gives you the ability to switch energy suppliers, so look for additional incentives, benefits, and services to find the company and plan that works for you.

What Should I Look for When Choosing an Energy Supplier?

Making the switch to a new energy supplier is simple, but looking for the right one can be quite a task. Here are the five main things to consider when choosing a new energy supplier:

Check that the energy supplier serves, and it’s licensed, in your state. Natural gas, electric, solar, or renewable? Know what energy your home will need, and see if the supplier offers that energy source within your state. Also, find out if the price includes a state sales tax or any other taxes, charges or fees. If the supplier is presenting the information to you clearly, this information should be readily available.
Analyze your current costs. When you understand the cost of energy for your home or small business, you will be better prepared to choose a new energy supplier that will meet your needs. Look at what you’ve been spending. Before reviewing other suppliers' prices, pull out a recent statement from your local utility or current competitive supplier. Review your bill to see how much you have been paying for electric and natural gas supply.
Consider the supplier’s history. Constellation, one of America’s largest residential energy suppliers, has been in business for more than 25 years providing service in 17 states to more than 2 million customers. Is the competitive supplier you are considering well established? Do they have a license to serve your state? If the supplier is licensed to serve your state, the license number should be easy to find at your state utility commission.
Look for reputable customer service. Look for a company that offers great customer service and promptly replies to questions. Ask your friends on Facebook or other social media if they use a particular supplier and how they like the service, or follow the company on social media and look at historical trends to see if there are any consistent complaints.
Exercise your power to choose. Research and find rates that will fit your budget from a company that you can rely on. Learn what your potential savings could be when switching energy suppliers. Carefully review pricing and plans as well as the terms and conditions of the plan you are considering.

How Does the Process for Switching Energy Suppliers Work?

There are plenty of nuances to switching energy providers. Keep in mind that state regulations may vary, but if you’re ready to switch to a new energy supplier, weighing the benefits and signing up for the new plan should be all you have to do. Once you enroll, you’ll receive service under the terms and conditions of the Agreement you choose from your new energy supplier.

When I choose a new energy supplier, what changes?

Your rate - Energy choice allows you to pursue pricing options and plans that may be different than what your supplier or utility is currently offering and switch to a provider that gives you a better rate.
Your customer service - You may also experience improved customer service when you choose to switch to a new energy supplier.

What stays the same when I switch my energy provider?

Your energy service - There will be no interruption in your electricity or natural gas service.
The energy equipment - Service components such as wires, pipelines, meters, and transformers will remain where they are. Physical modifications are not required because your energy is delivered through the same transmission and distribution system owned and operated by your utility.
The energy delivery - Your local utility will continue to be responsible for delivering electricity and natural gas and charges for your delivery services will remain the same.
Your bill - Different utility service areas may vary, but you may still receive one bill from your utility. Your bill will include Constellation’s supply charges and the utility’s delivery charges.
The upkeep - Your utility will continue to service all equipment - such as meters, wires, and pipelines - as well as respond to any power outages.

How Do I Switch Energy Suppliers?

Once you understand what to look for in an energy supplier and have compared your options, it’s time to make the switch.

Simply select the Constellation rate and contract term you want and proceed with the sign up process. We’ll take care of the rest.
You’ll have no service interruptions or unexpected fees.
Don't forget to carefully read your current provider's contract prior to switching to ensure you won’t be charged an early termination fee.
Contact your new energy company to get a timeline of when switching to your new electric company from your previous provider will actually happen.

Take advantage of your power to choose to switch to an energy supplier who is the best choice for your needs.