No one wants to spend their hard-earned money on large electricity bills or debts to a utility company. Yet that’s the sad reality for many households. Paying for electricity is practically inevitable, but the amount you pay is not. The great news is that you can shop for electricity, save money, and have expendable income for more important things.  

What you spend on electricity bills can profoundly impact your finances and peace of mind. When a big part of your income goes to electricity costs, you have less to spend on other more important or enjoyable things, such as food and clothing, extracurricular activities for the kids, hobbies, vacation time, or home renovations.  

Equipped with the right knowledge, you can shop around for electricity, lower your electric bills, and reduce your overall energy usage. Just imagine what you can do with the extra cash.  

In this article, we’ll show you how easy it is to switch electricity providers and give you tips on shopping for electricity. We want your bills and stress levels to go down and your happiness and quality of life to go up!  

Can I Switch to a Different Electricity Provider?  

You can switch to a different electricity provider if you live in a service area where electricity is deregulated. For instance, most of Texas is deregulated. 

Switching electricity providers is not the hassle many people think it is, and it should take no longer than a week – though, depending on where you live, the timing may be different.  

Should I Switch to a Different Electricity Supplier? 

Some electricity suppliers take advantage of consumers’ lack of knowledge regarding better offers and better service in the market. These providers might do one or more of the following:   

  • Overcharge you  
  • Use estimated (rather than accurate) billing 
  • Charge you high exit fees (also called termination fees) 
  • Fail to pay attention to bill disputes or complaints 
  • Be difficult to contact and communicate with 
  • Fail to notify you when your term is coming to an end  

Is There a Penalty for Switching to Another Provider? 

If you have a fixed-term contract with your electricity company, they may charge you an early termination fee if you choose to leave before the end of your contract. The company should let you know that your contract expiration date is coming up, but they might not, so it’s good to stay on top of your contract agreement yourself. 

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How Do I Shop for Electricity and Save?  

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Many people shop around for the best deal before buying anything. They consider all the options and compare and contrast the offerings to find the one that best suits their needs.   

The same applies to shopping for electricity.   

Making smart energy choices means choosing a provider and plan that suits your pocket, lifestyle, and season of life.   

Here are a few questions to ask before choosing a provider:  

How Long Will I Be Bound by the Contract with an Electricity Provider?  

Some providers offer contracts that last for as long as three years, while others offer month-to-month plans. If you opt for an agreement of three months and upwards, you might have to pay an exit fee should you switch to another provider before the end of the term. The downside to monthly plans is that your tariff will likely be higher.   

Before deciding on a plan, consider your current situation, your associated needs, and the extent to which you can commit.   

Here are some things to think about:  

  • How long am I planning to stay? 
  • How likely is it that I will have to move? 
  • Am I comfortable with a long-term contract? 
  • Am I willing to pay a higher rate in exchange for more flexibility? 
  • Will I mind paying an exit fee should I terminate the agreement early? 

With Just Energy, you can benefit from variable contract lengths. However, choosing the most extended possible term length is advisable to reduce your monthly fees.   

Just Energy operates in multiple states (and Canada), so moving doesn’t have to mean breaking your contract – you might be able to carry your contract forward to your new address.   

Opting for a variable contract gives you the freedom to make a move when you want to or when your circumstances change.  

Are There Fixed or Variable Rates?  

A fixed-rate plan involves paying a predetermined amount per kWh every month. By choosing this plan, you will not be affected by market fluctuations, and monthly budgeting will be easier as you will know precisely what you will pay for the duration of your contract. The possible disadvantage to this type of plan is that it involves a fixed contract, and you will not enjoy the benefits of energy price drops.   

Just Energy offers fixed rates that protect you from unplanned changes in the energy market. The plans also come with various added features and benefits that are just right for your family. Knowing that your rates will remain consistent regardless of uncontrollable factors provides additional security and peace of mind.   

Call Just Energy at 866-550-1550 for Great Energy Rates

Instead of worrying about unpredictable electricity bills, a fixed-rate plan offers you the freedom to plan for and spend your money on other things. You can put funds aside for school fees or save for a family vacation when you know your rate beforehand. Plus, you can accommodate your lifestyle to save energy and keep your power bill at its lowest.   

On the other hand, a variable rate gives you more flexibility and requires no long-term commitment. However, the price you pay per kilowatt-hour may vary each month. Depending on your electricity provider’s energy market, your rate can increase or decrease. While you might benefit from dropping market prices, you risk higher prices during peak demand.   

Here are a few questions to ask before deciding on the best plan for you and your family:   

  • Am I in a position to commit long-term? 
  • How much flexibility do I need at this stage of life? 
  • How comfortable am I with risk? 
  • Will I be able to pay my electricity bill should the rates increase rapidly and unexpectedly? 

Is a Deposit Required? 

Some energy companies ask new customers to pay a security deposit or initial fee – typically around 20% of your expected annual bill. Depending on your payment history and credit score, these deposits might be waived or lowered. Whereas some companies require you to pay the total amount by the time you receive your first bill, others might allow payments over a few months.  

Below are some deposit questions to consider:  

  • Am I in a financial position to pay a deposit right now? 
  • What do my payment history and credit score look like? 
  • Will I be able to pay off a deposit over several months?  

Just Energy’s prepaid supply plans let you purchase your electricity upfront without paying a deposit or committing to a contract. If you’re unsure where you will be or what your household might need in a few months, a no-deposit option gives you the necessary flexibility and freedom.  

Rather than spending a lump sum on an electrical deposit, you might want to use that money to fill another need. Perhaps you can pay down old debt, help out a family member, or finally fix that issue with your car stereo.  

How Does the Company Generate Electricity?  

Not all electricity companies use the same sources of energy. Some rely primarily on renewable sources such as solar, wind, geothermal, or biomass, while others use mostly coal, oil, and natural gas. You can learn about a provider’s energy sources by checking the facts label of your potential plan.   

Renewable energy sources of electricity are clean and unlimited, although generally more expensive. Consider your needs and your contribution to a cleaner environment:  

  • What are the company’s primary sources of energy? 
  • Does the company use renewable sources? 
  • How vital is environmentally friendly electricity to my family and me? 
  • Am I willing or able to pay more for clean energy? 

Just Energy gives you the option of adding a JustGreen energy product to your plan, allowing you to support clean energy. For a nominal monthly fee, you can buy renewable energy credits or carbon offsets, which can replace 100% of your energy use. The best part is that you have the option of adding a green energy product to any plan. Choosing a Just Energy plan ensures that your home’s power comes from cleaner sources than fossil fuel.   

Most of us are concerned about the well-being of the environment. By choosing a cleaner, environmentally friendly electricity provider, you can help reduce climate change and rest assured that you are contributing to preserving the environment.  

Shopping for Electricity and Smart Energy Choices Make a Difference 

Energy Savings Options | Shopping Onlinesource 

Making well-informed energy choices can save you money and give you security and peace of mind. With so many uncertainties, your electricity plan and monthly bill do not have to add to your concerns.   

Suppose you are unhappy with your energy company. In that case, you can switch to another provider fairly easily. Know when your existing contract comes to an end and keep shopping for more affordable, suitable options.   

If your current life circumstances are uncertain, it might be best to opt for a variable plan rather than a long-term contract. However, if you are relatively sure that you will still be in the same place six months to a year from now, a long-term fixed contract can shield you from risk and allow you to put a certain amount of money toward other things such as monthly investment contributions.   

Not everyone can pay an initial fee or deposit to an electricity provider. If you cannot do so or would rather spend the money on something else, you can opt for prepaid plans that require no deposits or long-term commitments.  

The knowledge that you are helping preserve the environment for future generations can mean a great deal to your peace of mind. When you choose cleaner, environmentally friendly electricity plans, you reduce your carbon footprint and serve the well-being of our planet.   

Finally, shopping around for electricity can ultimately mean significant savings for you. When you save money on power, you may be able to enjoy some extras in life – weekend entertainment, organic foods at the grocery store, and maybe a few of those little extras that make a home warm and inviting.   

Shop around and save on electricity – we think you’ll be glad you did. 

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