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YOUR RENEWABLE ENERGY OPTIONS
Shoppers Guide
Whether you are looking to switch your electricity supplier, participate in a utility green pricing program or choose a renewable energy certificate option, there are a few items you should consider before making your decision.
Tips for Comparison Shopping for a New Supplier:
When comparing electricity supply options, it is helpful to look at your options through three different lenses: 1) social/environmental; 2)economical; and 3) logistical.
Social and Environmental
Over 90% of Massachusetts electricity is generated by polluting fossil fuel and nuclear power resources. It is important to remember that although you do not see the environmental and health impacts of your electric use when you flip your switch, with each kilowatt-hour you use, a power plant somewhere is running to make that power available for you. When you choose your electricity supplier, you should ask about the source of the power they are purchasing on your behalf. Specifically, you should ask to look at their current “disclosure label,” which details their generating resources.
Asking about the source of the electricity being offered to you is important both to keep you informed and to demonstrate to competitive suppliers that their customers care where their power comes from. Your electricity supplier is required to send you a disclosure label along with your bill once each quarter. Don’t just throw it away—pay attention to the environmental impacts of the power you use!
Economical
What price is the supplier offering and how does it compare to the prices you have paid for electricity supply over the past few years? Remember that your new provider will only replace the supply portion of your bill which accounts for about 40% of the total electric bill (for residential consumers). Look back at your old bills and compare prices. You should also take into consideration the different pricing structures suppliers are offering, as some will have fluctuating market prices and others will offer long term fixed prices.
Logistical
What are the terms and conditions of the contract? Just like with any contract you would enter into, it is important to know things like the duration of the contract, whether there are termination fees, and what the consequences are for moving during the contract period. You should always carefully evaluate a supplier’s offerings.
For more consumer-focused information on electricity supplier choice, go to the Massachusetts Division of Energy Resources’ Consumer Guide.
