This article originally appeared on dydepune.com

Flipping a light switch or powering up your computer is second nature. But have you ever stopped to think about where your electricity comes from and how much you pay for it?

For most people, electricity seems like an endless resource that magically appears. Yet, energy costs comprise a significant chunk of any household’s monthly budget.

Smart consumers realize electricity rates vary wildly depending on your provider and plan. By shopping around and switching suppliers, households can save hundreds per year on their utility bills.

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Arm Yourself With Knowledge

Unfamiliar utility lingo and fine print causes many people to throw up their hands. A basic understanding of how to compare electricity rates could go a long way in helping them understand the fundamentals. Two key components affect your bill: generation/supply rates and delivery rates. Power generation involves producing electricity while delivery gets it to your home.

In deregulated energy markets like Ohio, consumers can shop for lower generation rates from alternative suppliers. Delivery rates are fixed costs charged by your local utility company for maintaining infrastructure. While you can’t control delivery rates, comparing electricity generation rates presents huge savings potential.

Brush Up on Market Jargon

Energy companies may inundate you with technical mumbo jumbo and convoluted rate structures. Here’s a quick primer on key terms:

• Fixed-rate: A flat rate per kWh that remains constant over the contract’s term. Offers consistent bills.
• Variable rate: The rate fluctuates month-to-month based on market conditions. Riskier but can score low rates when markets decline.
• Prepaid electric rates: Prepaid electricity plans allow customers to pay for their energy usage upfront rather than receiving a monthly bill.
• Cancellation fees: Charges for ending a contract early. Avoid steep termination penalties.
• Green energy options: Plans backed by renewable energy sources like wind and solar. Eco-friendly but often costlier.

Follow the Money Trail

Some states mandate utilities list a “price to compare” rate on bills, providing a baseline to judge alternatives. Run the numbers on your recent electric expenses before comparing new plans. Calculate your average monthly use and what you currently pay per kWh.

Online comparison tools like EnergyPricing allow you to enter your zip code and see real rates offered in your area. But don’t just search once. Check back often as rates fluctuate daily.

Avoid Information Overload

Inundating yourself with infinite data points on each electric company will only breed frustration. Start by limiting your search to 3-5 reputable providers highly rated by others. Analyze the fine print on offers for any hidden fees and caveats.

Lock It In

Once you spot a competitive fixed rate without unreasonable extras, lock it down. Securing a low rate shields you from market volatility. Consider contract length too. Shorter terms allow you to capitalize on seasonal dips but longer terms (12-24 months) ensure the lowest predictability.

Compare Electricity Rates and Start Saving Today

With some basic knowledge on how to compare electricity rates, consumers can take control and significantly lower their utility bills. By leveraging objective information on rates and plan structures, households can cut through the jargon and identify competitive offers that match their needs. Simply click here to check out EnergyPricing and prepare to save big on one of your largest monthly bills.