Choose a pricing structure, not a headline rate
Compare energy plan types by price behavior, fit, and the terms that deserve a second look.
These are structures, not offers or provider rankings. Availability depends on your utility territory and account. Compare supply prices with supply prices; do not compare a supply-only offer against an all-in bill average. Use the plan calculator to test two actual offers.
Select a column header to sort.
| Structure | How pricing works | Useful when | Check before choosing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fixed supply rate | Contracted supply unit rate for a stated term | You value supply-price stability | Delivery, taxes, usage, fees, and renewal can still change the bill |
| Variable supply rate | Supply price can change under contract terms | You can monitor changes and accept uncertainty | Price-setting method, notices, and cancellation |
| Utility default supply | Service available under your utility or local default arrangement | You want a baseline for shopping | Current tariff period and what the price includes |
| Time-of-use | Different unit prices in specified time bands | You can move material usage away from peak hours | Seasons, weekends, holidays, meter eligibility, and fees |
| Tiered usage | Different rates apply at usage thresholds | Your use fits the tariff and you understand thresholds | Incremental versus whole-usage calculation |
| Bill-credit plan | Credits depend on stated qualifying conditions | Your usage reliably meets the exact conditions | Months just below and above the threshold |
| Budget billing | Payments spread or smooth expected charges | You need more predictable payment timing | Reconciliation, payment reviews, and account balance |
| Natural gas choice | Competitive supply where locally available | You can compare equal heat units and contract terms | Therms versus Ccf, delivery charges, and renewal |
Put the structure in context
A fixed supply rate is not a fixed total bill. Budget billing changes payment timing and is not inherently a cheaper energy rate. A renewable claim requires its own product disclosure. The utility remains the starting point for delivery and outage questions.
Check EIA customer choice guidance and your state regulator. Pennsylvania residents can begin at the official PAPowerSwitch portal. This site does not retrieve current offers or enroll customers.