With energy affordability top of mind for households across the country, the start of a new year is a natural moment to pause and take stock of monthly expenses. Whether for groceries, insurance, or even streaming services, many families are looking closely at where their dollars are going and whether they’re getting real value in return.
One expense that often gets overlooked, though? Your electricity or natural gas supply.
That’s where Big Energy Savings Week (January 17–23) comes in. The week is a reminder that just like your phone plan or internet service, your energy supply deserves an occasional check-in. And unlike some New Year’s resolutions, this one doesn’t require a gym membership or giving up dessert.
For consumers living and working in states with retail energy choice, you can potentially save money and reduce your usage by reviewing, comparing, and actively managing your energy supply throughout the year. Markets change, pricing shifts, and consumer needs evolve. Periodic shopping can help ensure you’re getting the most value possible from your energy dollars.
And the good news is, you don’t have to do it alone.
The Retail Energy Supply Association (RESA) is a trusted resource for consumers to understand how energy choice works and compare options effectively.
Step One: Do You Have Energy Choice? The first step in shopping for energy is determining whether you live in a state or jurisdiction that allows consumers to choose their electricity and/or natural gas supplier. Not all states do. Unfortunately, many states still rely on a monopoly utility-dominated model that does not permit consumer choice.
RESA’s website features an interactive map showing where retail energy choice is available, making it easy to confirm whether shopping is an option where you live.
Step Two: Use State-Run Shopping Tools In states that do allow consumer choice, many public utility commissions operate official shopping websites that provide clear, standardized information on licensed suppliers, available products, plan terms, and pricing. These platforms are designed to simplify comparisons and increase transparency.
Examples of state-run energy shopping websites include:
- DC Power Connect
- Empower RI
- Energize Connecticut
- Energy Switch MA
- NJ Power Switch
- NYS Power To Choose
- Energy Choice Ohio
- PA Gas Switch
- PA Power Switch
- Plug In Illinois
These tools can help consumers compare offers side-by-side and better understand what’s available in their area.
Step Three: Compare Offers Thoughtfully
Once you know you have a choice and have either found a state-run shopping site or received an offer from a licensed retail supplier, the next step is to evaluate your options.
What matters most will vary from household to household, but RESA and state consumer education resources can help guide the process. Helpful questions to consider include:
- Is the price fixed, variable, or a combination of both?
- How long does the contract last, and can you switch suppliers if needed?
- What energy sources are included, and what are their environmental impacts?
- Are there value-added services included with the plan?
- What rights and protections do you have as an energy consumer in your state?
Empowerment Through Education
For more than 20 years, RESA has advocated in favor of consumer freedom, competitive markets, and informed decision-making in retail energy. We believe education is essential to helping consumers navigate offers, understand contract terms, and compare options with confidence.
For those looking to learn more about retail energy choice, its benefits, and smart shopping practices, RESA encourages consumers to explore the consumer resources section of our website at www.resausa.org.
For Big Energy Savings Week, taking a few minutes to review your energy options could be a small step toward greater control – and potentially greater savings – on one of your most essential household expenses.
