How To ChooseIn An Open Energy Market by Mike Beck (NAPSA)—Choosing an energy provider is just like other household purchase decisions: You should look for reliability, direct and friendly service and the type of offering that matches yourlifestyle. In the same way that deregulation of the telecommunications industry led to a variety of valueadded services, competition in the electricity and natural gas industry has prompted companies to think about new waysof providing you with value. Some of these offerings include: Fixed Pricing: Choose a payment plan that sets the monthly price for your energy costs. Bundled Options: You can choose to have your gas-, powerand electricity-related services packaged togetherin onebill. * Green Energy: You can now choose a plan with a certain percentage of the energy coming from alternative sources, such as wind poweror other renewable forms of energy. With these options in mind, you can now go to the next step, which is choosing your natural gas and electricity provider. Check your state’s energy Website to see if you have a choice of supplier in your market and review thelist of suppliers. Against this backdrop, you can now apply filter in evaluating suppliers: * Cost should not be the only factor: Customer service, years of experience in deregulated markets and a commitment to your Deregulation of the energy indus- try has given consumers a world of choices; it’s important to choosea planthat’s right for you. Competition is all about choice: Take time to find out what competitors offer in your region. Beware of hidden charges: Watch out for natural gas and electricity companies that have a “customer charge” or “administration fee.” * Don’t be afraid to ask: Friends and neighbors can share with you their experiences with energy suppliers. With the hard work behind you, you're now ready to make a switch. Simply visit the Web site of the provider you’ve chosen or call its customer service number. In just a few short moments, you can find yourself in the driver’s seat of your energy-purchasing decisions. positive experience are also very For more information on choice, visit Direct Energy at has the best customerservices and, (866) 348-4194. important. You can find out who on the flip side, see the complaint records against a company. www.directenergy.com or call Energy expert Mike Beck is vice president of Direct Energy.
