It is rare to find a utility advising customers publicly to seek electric supply options from competitors, but FirstEnergy has done just that. They continued on to also state their concerns with rising energy prices. Read the release below where FirstEnergy encourages customers to shop around:

AKRON, Ohio, Nov. 15, 2021 — With higher fuel costs expected to influence energy rates this winter, FirstEnergy Corp. (NYSE: FE) is encouraging customers of its utility companies in Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Maryland to evaluate electric supply deals that fit their budget and protect against rising energy prices.

The price of natural gas – which makes up the largest share of U.S. electricity generation – has been rising in recent months due to low inventory levels and continuing demand. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) expects natural gas prices to remain volatile over the winter months, with colder weather potentially driving demand and prices even higher. As these costs fluctuate, customers could see an increase in the rates they pay for electric generation.

In deregulated states like Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Maryland, FirstEnergy’s utilities deliver electricity to homes and business and bill for electricity, but customers have the ability to shop among a wide range of competitive energy suppliers for electric generation, which typically represents about half of a customer’s monthly bill. A variety of energy pricing options and plans are available from these suppliers. A careful review of those options could result in potential savings this winter.

“With energy rates elevated and poised to increase further, we encourage our customers who live in states with energy choice to review their bills and make sure they’ve selected a plan that best meets their monthly financial needs,” said Mark Jones, vice president of Customer Engagement for FirstEnergy.

When evaluating options, customers should consider energy price, plan structure (fixed or variable rate), contract terms and conditions, and any taxes, charges or fees that may apply. Customers who choose not to shop among suppliers can continue to rely on their local utility for all facets of electric service, including generation (default service). In some cases, the prices paid for electricity under default service may offer savings over competitive energy plans. Customers should consult the price to compare under the “Messages” section of their electric bill when considering their different alternatives.

Before making a switch, customers should review their current contract to determine if an early termination fee applies. Customers who change energy suppliers will not experience an interruption in service, and FirstEnergy’s utilities will continue to deliver their electricity, service electrical equipment and respond to outages.

With changing prices comes increased opportunity for BOX Brokers! As always, contact your account manager with any questions of for assistance with pricing options in these areas.

Broker Online Exchange (BOX) is the largest and most flexible retail energy network in North America. We satisfy the needs of commercial customers, energy brokers, and affiliates by providing direct access to North America’s top suppliers, markets, personalized support and payment plans.

For commercial energy customers, BOX offers access to the largest and most experienced broker network in the country. We connect customers to professional, specialized energy brokers will help satisfy your energy needs with the industry’s best prices. With over 45,000 accounts served across every market and industry, we know how to help each customers’ specific industry and market combination like no one else.