Understanding Home Energy Usage
The average American home uses about 886 kWh of electricity per month. However, this varies wildly by season, location, and home size (an apartment vs. a large single-family home). Understanding your usage pattern is the first step to saving money.
Check your bill for a "Usage History" graph. Do you use more power in the summer (AC) or winter (Heating)? This profile helps determine the best plan for you.
Types of Plans for Homeowners
Fixed-Rate Plans
Best for budgeting. Your rate stays the same for 12-36 months. Ideal if you want to lock in a low rate and forget about it.
Green Energy Plans
Support renewable energy. These plans source electricity from wind, solar, or hydro. They are often fixed-rate but may cost slightly more.
Time-of-Use (TOU)
Rates vary by time of day. Electricity is cheaper at night and more expensive during peak hours (e.g., 4 PM - 9 PM). Great for EV owners charging at night.
Residential FAQ
Can I switch suppliers if I rent an apartment?
Yes! As long as the utility bill is in your name, you have the right to choose your energy supplier in deregulated areas.
Will my power go out if I switch?
No. Your local utility company (the one that owns the wires) is still responsible for delivering the power and fixing outages. The only thing that changes is the billing rate for the supply portion.