The power to choose where their energy comes from is in the hands of millions of people in deregulated states. That means the power to choose energy rates, contract lengths, contract types, and more. If you live in a deregulated energy state, here is how you can find the best electricity rates for your business.
Many states in the US have full or partial energy regulation, where the state fully controls energy rates, transportation, and distribution. Deregulation occurs when states do not have total control of energy rates, although they still may oversee the transportation and distribution of these utilities.
Deregulation usually works by having energy companies sell their electricity or natural gas at competitive rates. This competition may lower costs for consumers and allow them to choose who they want to provide their gas and/or electric utilities. Deregulation laws may also, however, mean unpredictable energy costs and/or surge pricing, opportunities for scammers, less regulation and management of infrastructure, and difficulty shopping for the best rates and contracts.
US states with full or partial electricity deregulation or restructuring include the following.
STATE | ELECTRICITY CHOICE FOR COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL CUSTOMERS? |
California | |
Connecticut | Yes |
Delaware | Yes |
Illinois | |
Maine | |
Maryland | Yes |
Massachusetts | Yes |
Michigan | |
New Hampshire | Yes |
New Jersey | Yes |
New York | Yes |
Ohio | Yes |
Oregon | |
Pennsylvania | Yes |
Rhode Island | Yes |
Texas | Yes, in most areas |
Virginia | Only for customers needing more than 5 megawatts; must be from state-approved choice |
Washington, D.C./District of Columbia | Yes |
US states with full or partial natural gas deregulation or restructuring include the following.
STATE | NATURAL GAS CHOICE FOR COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL CUSTOMERS? |
California | |
Colorado | Yes, although no utility providers currently offer natural gas choice provider programs |
Connecticut | Yes |
Florida | Yes |
Georgia | |
Illinois | Yes |
Indiana | Yes |
Iowa | |
Kentucky | Yes |
Maine | Yes |
Maryland | Limited to certain areas |
Massachusetts | Yes |
Michigan | Yes |
Montana | Yes |
Nebraska | Yes |
Nevada | Limited |
New Hampshire | Yes |
New Jersey | |
New Mexico | Limited participation |
New York | Yes |
Ohio | Yes |
Pennsylvania | Yes |
Rhode Island | |
South Dakota | Yes |
Tennessee | Limited |
Texas | For large consumers only |
Virginia | Limited |
Washington, D.C./District of Columbia | Yes |
West Virginia | Limited participation and provider availability |
Wisconsin | |
Wyoming | Limited |
The following states have regulated energy markets.
The power to make energy choices is great for flexibility and reducing costs, but it can come with complications. Here’s how to simplify the process of shopping for energy suppliers.
The best first step to take when shopping for energy suppliers is to set your budget. This way, you can determine which energy providers—provided you are not limited to your local utility company—are reasonable choices for your business. From there, you can narrow your choices based on which specific plan works for you.
After determining your budget, it’s time to find the right plan for your business.
Your options may include:
Shopping for energy doesn’t have to be a complicated process when you go to the right place. 5 Digital Energy is the energy marketplace and broker that helps businesses in states with deregulated electricity markets find the best plans at the best rates from the best suppliers. We even help our clients set up plans, taking more stress off their plates so they can get back to running their businesses.
States with Deregulated Electricity Markets We Serve:
Want help not just finding the right electricity provider, but also getting the plan set up? Contact us today or go here to compare rates instantly.
