Supply and delivery are different parts of the bill
In markets with retail choice, a competitive supplier sells the energy while the local utility operates the wires and handles outages. Changing suppliers does not change your home’s physical connection. The way charges appear on one or more bills depends on your state and arrangement; do not assume every market bills the same way.
For example, Duquesne Light’s customer-choice guide explains its delivery role and the default supply option for Pittsburgh customers. Start with the guide for your state to identify the relevant utility and market.
kW and kWh explain different things
A kilowatt (kW) measures power. A kilowatt-hour (kWh) measures energy used over time. A 1 kW appliance running for two hours uses 2 kWh. At an example supply price of 12¢/kWh, that energy costs 24¢ for supply, before delivery and other charges.
Fixed price does not mean a fixed total bill
A fixed supply price generally stays at the contracted per-kWh amount for its stated term, subject to the agreement. Your bill can still change with usage and other charges. At an illustrative 12¢/kWh, 500 kWh costs $60 for supply, while 900 kWh costs $108, even though the price is unchanged.
A variable price can change under the contract’s rules. An introductory price may apply for only part of a contract. A time-of-use plan charges different prices at different times. The Pennsylvania regulator’s pricing guide explains fixed, variable and flat-rate choices in that market.
Fees change the effective price
At 500 kWh, a $10 monthly supplier fee adds the equivalent of 2¢/kWh. At 1,000 kWh, the same fee adds 1¢/kWh. Include it in the cost calculation instead of comparing the advertised energy prices alone. Check enrollment fees, usage thresholds, bill-credit conditions, and early termination charges separately.
Renewal is another decision
Record the term’s end date and read the renewal notice. The next price or pricing type may differ from the initial agreement. A reminder helps you review the options; it does not select a new plan or cancel your current contract for you.
Build a plan record you can use later
- Supplier name and customer-service contact.
- Service address, delivery utility, and account type.
- Supply price, pricing type, and all applicable fees.
- Start and end dates, cancellation terms, and renewal instructions.
- A saved copy of the offer and enrollment confirmation.
Use that record with the worked rate-comparison example. For your local options, visit Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, or your state guide.
Guide reviewed by Choose My Electric on . Examples are illustrative; verify current offers and terms with the linked official sources. Send a correction.