What Is Price To Compare (PTC)?

When shopping for electricity or natural gas in a deregulated energy market, one of the most important factors to consider is the Price to Compare (PTC) and why it’s important.

Understanding the Price to Compare (PTC)

The Price to Compare (PTC) is a reference rate provided by your local utility company. It represents the price you’ll pay per kilowatt-hour (kWh) for electricity or Therm for natural gas if you do not select an alternate energy provider or ESCO (Energy Service Company).

Essentially, the PTC allows you to compare the rates offered by different electricity suppliers and see if switching could lead to lower rates or energy savings on your monthly electric bill.

In deregulated energy markets, consumers have energy choices and can shop for electricity plans or natural gas suppliers. In some states, the PTC acts as a benchmark, giving consumers a straightforward way to assess whether an alternate supplier offers better rates than their electric utility’s standard price.

How the PTC Works

Your electric utility provides the price to compare on your bill, which reflects the supply cost of electricity or natural gas. This rate does not include delivery fees or other costs charged by the utility company for maintaining the power lines and other infrastructure that delivers energy to your business.

Here’s how to use the Price to Compare:

  1. Find your PTC: Check your utility bill for the price to compare. If you are in a utility with a PTC, it is usually listed in cents per kWh for electricity on the invoice. 
  2. Compare against alternate suppliers: Shop for energy plans from alternate energy suppliers or electricity providers. Look at their rates and compare them with the PTC.
  3. Consider other factors: The PTC in a given utility changes with time. Some utilities change their PTC twice per year while others change the PTC more frequently. It is important for a business to know that it may be more prudent to switch to a supplier other than the utility because the fixed rate with a supplier will remain fixed for the duration of the contract term, while the PTC will change. A fixed rate with an alternative supplier can provide budget stability that can’t be obtained with a PTC offer from the utility.  

Why PTC Is Crucial in Deregulated Markets

In deregulated states, the Public Service Commission (PSC) or Public Utilities Commission oversees the rates charged by electric companies and utility providers. This regulatory oversight ensures that electricity prices are fair and consumers have access to the energy choice that allows them to pick a supplier based on their unique energy needs.

By knowing your PTC, you can:

  • Understand the costs associated with staying with your electric utility.
  • Evaluate offers from competitive suppliers and compare them to the PTC. Even though an offer may be higher than a utility’s PTC, it may make sense for a business to switch and obtain a rate that is fixed for the duration of the contract term.

FAQs About Price to Compare (PTC)

Is the PTC the lowest rate I can get?

No, the PTC is simply a baseline. Many energy suppliers offer competitive rates below the PTC, especially for fixed-rate plans.

How often does the PTC fluctuate?

The PTC is adjusted periodically based on the cost of energy procurement by the local utility. It will rise or fall depending on market conditions.

Using the PTC to Make Informed Choices

Understanding the Price to Compare is an important point to consider for anyone shopping for electricity supply in deregulated markets. It gives you the knowledge you need to make informed decisions about your energy provider, helping you find the best energy rates that align with your energy needs.  

By knowing your PTC and comparing it with the energy options from other electric suppliers, you can take control of your energy costs, find the best electricity rates, and enjoy more stable and predictable energy bills.

Contact 5 Digital Energy for Help

Navigating the complexities of energy deregulation and comparing electricity rates can be overwhelming. That’s where 5 Digital Energy comes in. Our team of experienced energy experts is here to help you understand your Price to Compare, explore competitive rates from top energy suppliers, and choose the right energy provider for your needs.

Whether you’re looking for a fixed-rate plan, interested in renewable energy options, or trying to reduce your energy bills, 5 Digital Energy is committed to helping you make informed decisions and simplifying your energy shopping experience.

Reach out now, and let’s take the next step toward optimizing your energy usage and reducing your monthly electric bill!

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