How to Compare Electric Suppliers in Pittsburgh PA

Can Pittsburgh residents choose their energy provider?  

Yes, Pittsburgh residents can choose their electricity provider. Since Pittsburgh lives in a deregulated energy market, consumers have the power to choose. This means customers have the option to select their natural gas and electricity suppliers in Pittsburgh.  

While Duquesne Light Company is the main utility responsible for delivering electricity to Pittsburgh homes and businesses, Pennsylvania’s deregulated energy market gives customers the freedom to select their electricity and natural gas suppliers.  

This choice enables consumers in Pittsburgh, PA, to select an energy plan that best suits their needs, preferences, and lifestyle—without being limited to a single option. 

How to compare electric providers in Pittsburgh  

Comparing Pittsburgh electricity providers can be a daunting task especially with various options available. To make an informed decision, it’s essential to compare PA electric providers based on factors that align with your priorities. Here are the key steps you can take to confidently evaluate and select the provider that best meets your energy needs:

1. Compare Pittsburgh energy plan options

Many electric suppliers in Pittsburgh come with various plans options to choose from. Here are some of the most common plan types and what they mean: 

• Fixed vs. Variable Rates: Fixed-rate plans provide stability, allowing customers to lock in a consistent rate. While variable-rate plans are available, they carry significant risk since rates fluctuate monthly. During extreme weather, these rates can spike considerably, leading to unexpectedly high bills if not closely monitored. 

• Earth-Friendly Energy Plans: For those looking to reduce their environmental impact, some energy suppliers offer Earth-Friendly plans that support energy from renewable sources like wind or solar. This can help support your sustainable goals and make an impact on the planet while still getting the energy you need. 

• Supply Charge Throughout Plan Term: Some providers might have hidden fees or spikes in their supply charge – this can really throw off your monthly budget. Luckily, with Santanna’s Unlimited Energy Plan, there won’t be a spike in the supply charge of the bill throughout the duration of the contract!* 

2. Compare contract terms and lengths

Another factor to consider when comparing electric suppliers in Pittsburgh, consider their energy plan’s contract lengths. 

• Short-Term vs. Long-Term Contracts: Most energy suppliers offer contracts anywhere from 3 to 36 months long. The most common contact length is 12 months.  

• Cancellation Fees: Watch for early termination fees when switching providers before a contract ends.  

• Renewal Policies: Be aware of automatic renewals and possible rate increases after promotional periods end. Some providers might surprise you with an automatic renewal and significantly increase your rates at renewal without warning.  

At Santanna, we’re not a fan of surprises and we’re sure you’re not either when it comes to your energy. While Santanna customers are renewed automatically, we give you plenty of warning when your renewal window is on the horizon so you can make an informed decision about your energy plan or give us a call to talk through your options.   

If we don’t hear from you, that’s okay! We take care of the renewal by switching you to a “like” plan to keep your energy expectations as predictable as possible. Unlike other providers, we keep your rates stable at renewal, without unexpected hikes. Rest assured, our focus is always on keeping your energy experience smooth, predictable, and fully aligned with your needs.  

3. Evaluate if potential electric suppliers in Pittsburgh offer renewable energy options

If environmental preservation is on your list of priorities, some electric companies in Pittsburgh PA offers the chance to sign up for an Earth-Friendly energy plan. In our case, when you sign up for a Santanna Earth-Friendly Electricity plan, you can help support an earth-friendly future by powering your home.  

With a Santanna Earth-Friendly Natural Gas plan, you can help create ecological balance in the world through carbon offsetting. This means you’re making up for our emissions here by reducing emissions somewhere else simply by heating your home. 

4. Look into referral and rewards programs offered by Pittsburgh PA electric providers 

Pittsburgh electricity providers offer referral programs or rewards programs for their customers. In referral programs you can earn rewards by referring others, typically as bill credits or bonuses. Some electric providers in Pittsburgh offer ongoing reward programs for customers that range from monthly tech to weekly gift card giveaways. 

5. Compare customer service 

Reliable customer service is essential when selecting an electric provider in Pittsburgh PA, as it can make a big difference in your experience. Prioritize excellent response time when you have a question. Look for providers with a reputation for responsive support, ensuring they are easy to reach by phone, email, or chat. At Santanna, our customer friendly team ensures your concerns are properly addressed immediately.  

6. Compare your provider’s company values 

When choosing a Pittsburgh PA electric supplier, consider if they share the same values as you. Do they care about sustainability like you do? Do they give back to local communities? If this is something you value, consider finding an energy provider that feels the same as you and goes the extra mile to support those efforts.  

This provides peace of mind in your energy choice knowing your supporting causes close to your heart. 

7. Review a provider’s stability and longevity 

Consider how long the provider has been in business. (Santanna Energy Services has been around for 35 years and has served 500,000+ customers). A well-established company with years of service may be more reliable and trustworthy than newer entrants.  

Be sure to read and assess Google reviews on the providers you’re considering. Often, past customers leave insight on their experience and what to expect after becoming a customer.  

8. Assess if there will be interruptions in your service after switching 

When looking for an electric supplier in Pittsburgh PA, confirm that your new provider won’t interrupt your electricity supply. When you change electricity providers, the transition should be seamless without any service interruptions. Some energy providers require the installation of extra equipment to get your service. Santanna doesn’t require any extra equipment and won’t cause an interruption to your electrical service.  

How to compare Pittsburgh electricity rates  

Choosing an energy provider goes beyond finding the cheapest rate. Consider investigating these options when looking for energy rates and plans to fit your needs.  

Understand Your Usage: Look at your past electricity bills to see your average monthly usage in kilowatt-hours (kWh). This will tell you what plan and rate is right for you.  

Check Regulatory Websites: Visit official state websites or Pennsylvania’s Public Utility Commission (PUC) regulates electricity providers, and some may still be under rate caps for specific areas.  

Look for Renewable Energy Credits (RECs): Some Pittsburgh PA electric providers offer plans that are partially or fully backed by Renewable Energy Credits, ensuring that a percentage of your electricity is sourced from wind, solar, or other renewable sources. If reducing your carbon footprint is a priority, check if your provider supports renewable energy initiatives through RECs.  

Types of electricity plans in Pittsburgh PA  

Understanding the difference between these two can help you decide which option suits your lifestyle and budget best.  

Fixed-rate energy plans 

Fixed-Rate energy plans offer rate certainty & stability even when market prices become volatile. If energy prices rise over time, a fixed-rate plan can provide cost savings compared to variable-rate plans that adjust with market conditions. Fixed-rate plans are typically offered in contracts that last anywhere from 12 to 24months, although some suppliers offer shorter and longer options.  

Earth-friendly energy plans  

An Earth-Friendly energy plan offers energy with an environmental impact.  

These plans are backed by carbon-free electricity or renewable energy certificates (RECs). This option allows you to support green energy sources such as wind or solar while getting the energy you need. Santanna’s Earth-Friendly Electricity plan matches 100% of your usage with renewable energy credits that provide the opportunity to help the environment remain carbon neutral or even reduce the carbon footprint with this product.  

For those who prioritize environmental sustainability and want to contribute to reducing carbon emissions in Pennsylvania, this is an excellent choice.  

Unlimited energy/Flat fee plan 

A flat fee plan or often referred to as an Unlimited Energy Plan allows you to pay the same supply charge each month regardless of how much electricity you use.* Your supplier will calculate this based on your historical usage to provide a flat fee. This is a great option for residents in Pittsburgh looking to plan their monthly budget with more predictable monthly energy costs. You’ll pay the same supply charge each month and that promotes a more predictable monthly bill.  

Variable rate plan  

The electricity rate can change monthly based on market conditions, supply and demand, or fuel costs. Variable-rate plans often come with month-to-month contracts, offering greater flexibility for those who prefer not to be tied to a long-term agreement. Variable-rate plans are extremely high-risk and customers may face higher rates during periods of high energy demand, such as extreme weather, leading to unpredictable and high monthly bills.  

While there is potential for lower rates when the market drops, customers may end up paying more over time compared to a fixed-rate plan.  

What’s the difference between a Pittsburgh energy supplier and a Pittsburgh utility company?  

When comparing electricity providers, it’s important to understand the distinct roles that suppliers and utility companies play in the energy market:  

Supplier: The supplier is the company that generates or purchases electricity and sells it to consumers. Suppliers are responsible for offering various energy plans, including fixed-rate, variable-rate, and flat-fee energy options.  

Utility Company: A utility company, on the other hand, is responsible for the infrastructure that delivers electricity to your home or business. They maintain power lines, handle outages, and provide general grid maintenance and billing.  

Going with a Pittsburgh energy supplier vs. a primary utility  

Now that you understand the difference, let’s dive into the pros and cons of selecting an electricity supplier. Local Pittsburgh energy suppliers often provide more personalized customer service and a community-focused approach compared to larger utilities. Larger utilities often have hundreds of customers to deal with in a day and can’t provide personalized and quick service.  

Smaller suppliers may offer more competitive rates and flexible plans that can be tailored to meet specific needs and lifestyles. Bigger utilities on the other hand often have one plan to choose from. Choosing a Pittsburgh-based supplier can help support local businesses.**

With competitive electric suppliers in Pittsburgh, you can select from various contract lengths, giving you the option to lock in a rate for an extended period and avoid unexpected price hikes.   

Large utilities may frequently adjust their rates; Duquesne Light Co. typically adjusts their rates every six months. Opting for a smaller supplier with long-term rate locks provides stability and predictability for your budget.  

When can I switch my Pittsburgh PA electric provider and plan?  

You can switch your Pittsburgh energy supplier and plan at any time! Most companies offer easy online enrollment. However, keep in mind that some fees may apply depending on the contract terms you initially agreed to. It’s always a good idea to read the fine print before making the switch.   

Switching is a straight forward process and the new Pittsburgh electric company you switch to can handle your switch with ease and without interruptions.

Choosing the right electric supplier in Pittsburgh, PA, can make a real difference for your home and your lifestyle. Making an informed decision not only brings peace of mind but also ensures you get the most value from your energy choice. Remember, the power to choose is in your hands—use it wisely to secure a plan that meets your lifestyle and budget needs. 

* Restrictions apply. Enrollment based upon program eligibility. Customers using more than 125% of normal monthly usage as determined by Santanna may be required to switch plans.