A Competitive Marketplace

What is deregulation?

Deregulation refers to the restructuring of the electricity market that gives consumers the right to choose among different energy providers. In many states, there used to be only one choice for electricity based on where you live. Deregulation began in 2002, when  new state laws broke apart the old monopolies and separated the delivery of electricity from the electricity itself. Now, in many states, one company reads the meters and maintains the poles and wires that deliver the electricity. Because many companies now compete to sell the electricity that runs over the poles and wires, consumers benefit from competitive rates, more product options and greater service levels.

Who benefits?

You do! More electricity providers means more competition, which also means a greater number of choices and options for electricity consumers.

Whenever the market isn't monopolized by one or two large companies, or regulated by the government, economic supply and demand for services can interact naturally. That means deregulation can help you secure a fair price people pay per kilowatt hour (kWh).

 But, prices for electricity can change quickly--with the market rising or falling a lot even over the course of one day. We give consumers another reason to pick an electricity provider beyond just price: affinity for their alma mater, neighborhood, church, or other organization.

The model is simple. As more and more customers sign up with your specific program, a larger contribution can be made to you.