What is Utility Choice

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What is Utility Choice

Pennsylvania consumers may have the opportunity to choose who generates their electricity, supplies their natural gas and provides their local telephone service. In 1996, the electricity market in Pennsylvania was deregulated and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) issued an Order that established competition in the local telephone market. Competition for all gas customers in Pennsylvania began November 1, 1999, after House Bill 1331 became law (Act 21). Act 21 allows all gas customers the option of purchasing natural gas services from a natural gas supplier, just as customers currently purchase electricity from an electric supplier under the Electric Choice Program.

It is important for all Pennsylvanians to understand that competition provides the opportunity for potential choices for their utility suppliers. Competition does not mean that companies will have to install new telephone lines, gas pipes and electricity lines to your home or business. What is new is the fact that if you live in an area of the Commonwealth that offers choice you may be able to choose the company that supplies your telephone, natural gas or electric service. Learn more about choice programs for each utility by following their links: local telephone, electricity and natural gas.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities to ensure safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protect the public interest; educate consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; further economic development; and foster new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

What is Utility Choice | How to Shop | Pricing Information | Information Resources
Consumer Rights | Low Income Programs
Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission