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Home › Pay › Common problems › Utility and energy supply plans
Fees and services

Utility and energy supply plans

In some states you can choose who supplies your electricity or natural gas. That choice can save money, but some offers start with a low rate that later jumps, or lock you into a contract with an exit fee. Knowing your current rate and reading the plan terms closely can help you avoid paying more than your regular utility.

Common problems to watch for

  • A low introductory rate that switches to a much higher variable rate
  • Door-to-door or phone sellers who ask for your account number 'to check your bill'
  • Early termination fees buried in the contract
  • Monthly service charges that are not included in the advertised rate
  • Contracts that renew automatically on a new, higher rate

Had one of these happen? Telling others what you were charged helps them avoid it.

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Free and low-cost alternatives

Stay with your utility's standard rateYou can usually keep buying power or gas from your local utility at its regulated rate. You do not have to switch.
Your state utility commissionState public utility commissions explain your rights and, in states with energy choice, often list how to compare supplier offers.
LIHEAP energy helpThe federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program helps eligible households with heating and cooling bills. Apply through your state or local LIHEAP office.
Your utility's own programsMany utilities offer free tools like budget billing, usage alerts or energy-saving tips on their official website.

Availability depends on your device and model. AblePro has no relationship with any company named here.

How companies charge more here: Fees that cost them nothing

What fair pricing looks like

A fair energy plan clearly shows the rate per unit, how long it lasts and any monthly or exit fees. A rate that can change without limit each month is hard to budget and worth avoiding.

Before you pay

  • Find your utility's current standard rate on your bill to compare
  • Ask if the rate is fixed or variable, and for how long
  • Ask about early termination and monthly service fees
  • Never give your account number to an unexpected caller or visitor
  • Get the contract in writing and read it before agreeing

How to cancel

  1. Check your contract for the end date and any early termination fee before cancelling.
  2. Contact the supplier to cancel, or ask your utility how to return to its standard service.
  3. Watch your next bill to confirm the supplier's name and rate have changed.
  4. If you were switched without agreeing, contact your utility and your state utility commission.

Step-by-step cancel guide for iPhone, Android and PayPal →

Common questions

Do I have to switch energy suppliers?

No. In states that allow energy choice, switching is optional. Your local utility still delivers your power or gas and handles outages either way. If an offer does not clearly beat your current rate for the full contract, staying put is a reasonable choice.

Why did my bill jump after switching?

Many offers start with a fixed rate for a few months and then move to a variable rate that can change each month. Look at your bill or contract for the rate and end date. If the new rate is high, you may be able to switch back.

What if someone switched me without asking?

Switching your supplier without your permission is sometimes called slamming. Contact your utility first and ask to be switched back. Then file a complaint with your state utility commission, which handles these issues, and keep a copy of your bills.

General consumer information, not legal or financial advice. Reports reflect the experiences and opinions of their writers, not AblePro, Inc. We check reports against our posting rules but do not verify them.