July 10 marks the annual celebration of Global Energy Independence Day, a moment to spotlight the growing role of alternative energy sources in shaping a cleaner, more secure, and affordable energy future. For the Retail Energy Supply Association (RESA), it’s a time to reflect on the progress made and the opportunities that lie ahead.
Today, energy independence extends far beyond domestic oil and gas production. It now encompasses a broader vision, one that includes solar, wind, hydropower, geothermal, and emerging clean technologies. These advancements are being accelerated by retail energy providers across competitive markets, where innovation thrives and consumers drive demand.
Last year, our blog focused on the environmental benefits of alternative energy. This year, we turn our attention to the power of energy choice, how it empowers individuals, transforms markets, and builds a more resilient energy system.
In restructured energy markets, customers have the freedom to choose from a range of competitive retail suppliers, many of whom offer renewable energy plans. These suppliers are leading the shift by tapping into clean energy sources, such as rooftop solar, onshore wind, and small-scale hydropower.
The impact of retail competition is real and measurable:
- Prices that reflect current market conditions, not outdated, regulated utility models.
- Flexible billing options, like fixed-rate and time-of-use plans, give consumers greater control.
- Early adoption of smart grid technologies and energy management tools improves efficiency.
But it’s not just about price. Retail suppliers are competing through innovation, offering demand response programs, bundled energy efficiency solutions, and cutting-edge technology that helps customers reduce usage and costs. In states and jurisdictions with full retail choice, energy systems are not only cleaner but also more resilient, thanks to these competitive dynamics.
At RESA, we believe open markets, informed consumers, and innovation are essential to achieving global energy independence. Our members are actively supporting this transition with products that reflect customer values and contribute to long-term sustainability.
Clean energy is becoming more efficient and affordable. Businesses are making strategic investments. Households are making the switch. Policymakers are taking notice.
Still, there’s more work to do. Expanding retail choice to more states and jurisdictions could dramatically accelerate this shift.
Giving consumers the ability to choose their energy provider isn’t just about convenience; it’s about influence. Every informed decision sends a message: we want better value, cleaner power, and smarter solutions. We’re already seeing momentum nationwide. Smart technologies are replacing outdated infrastructure. Clean energy generation is surging. And innovation is reshaping how we think about electricity. Even federal policy is beginning to reflect this shift—just this week, the Department of Justice reaffirmed its support for competitive energy markets, echoing RESA’s longstanding belief that open markets drive progress.
Whether you’re a policymaker, provider, or consumer, each of us has a role in shaping our energy future. Having renewable energy options through a competitive supplier is one powerful way to send a message that the future of energy should be clean, reliable, and built on choice.
At RESA, we’ll continue to advocate for access, transparency, innovation, and sustainability, one informed decision at a time.